BREAKING: 50 Dead in Suspected Revenge Attacks by Fulani Herdsmen in Benue State

BREAKING: 50 Dead in Suspected Revenge Attacks by Fulani Herdsmen in Benue State

🐄🚨BREAKING: 50 Dead in Suspected Revenge Attacks by Fulani Herdsmen in Benue State

Otukpo, Benue State – Sunday, July 12, 2026

At least 10 people have been killed in a series of attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen on communities in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attacks began on Saturday when gunmen invaded Akpachi village in the Ugboju community, killing two people and injuring several others. Less than 24 hours later, in the early hours of Sunday around 3 a.m., the attackers struck again—this time hitting Otukpo Nobi village, where they killed eight more residents while they were asleep.

Why the Attacks Happened

Security sources say the violence is believed to be revenge for the killing of Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN).

Mohammed and his associate, Yakubu Isah, were ambushed and killed on June 26, 2026, around Okudu community in Otukpo LGA. They were returning from a peace meeting in neighbouring Ohimini LGA when armed men attacked them. Police have since arrested 17 suspects in connection with that killing, including four traditional chiefs and an 80-year-old man.

Angry youths and residents carried the corpses of the victims to the palace of the Och’Idoma (the paramount ruler of the Idoma Nation) in Otukpo town to protest the worsening security situation. They are demanding urgent action from the Benue State Government, the federal government, and security agencies.

What Authorities Are Saying

When asked about the latest attacks, the Benue State Police Command spokesperson reportedly said only: “Noted please”. No official statement has been released yet confirming whether any arrests have been made.

Residents are appealing for increased security presence in the affected communities to prevent further loss of lives.