At least 18 people were killed in fresh suspected herdsmen attacks in Otukpo, Benue State, sparking protests as Governor Hyacinth Alia orders tighter security.
Otukpo, Benue State - July 12, 2026
A fresh wave of violence has claimed at least 18 lives in Benue State after suspected armed herders launched separate attacks on communities in Otukpo Local Government Area, sparking widespread outrage and street protests by grieving residents.
According to community accounts, the violence began on Friday when two farmers were reportedly killed while working on their farmland in Akpachi village, Ugboju.
Before residents could recover from the incident, another attack occurred in the early hours of Sunday in Otukpo-Nobi community, where at least 16 more people, including women and children were killed.
Several others reportedly sustained injuries as frightened residents fled for safety during the assault.
The latest killings triggered protests across Otukpo as angry youths carried the bodies of victims to the palace of the Och'Idoma during a church service, demanding stronger government action to end recurring attacks.
Major roads linking Otukpo to Makurdi and Enugu were blocked for hours, disrupting traffic and commercial activities.
Residents described the incident as one of the deadliest attacks the area has witnessed in recent months.
Otukpo Local Government Chairman Maxwell Ogiri suggested the attack may be connected to reprisals following the June 26 killing of Benue State MACBAN Chairman, Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, and his associate, Yakubu Isah.
The two men were attacked while returning from a peace meeting in Ohimini Local Government Area, a development that has continued to generate security concerns across parts of Benue South.
Authorities, however, have not officially confirmed any direct connection between the incidents.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the killings, describing the attacks as unacceptable and a direct assault on the lives and security of Benue citizens.
He directed security agencies to strengthen surveillance in vulnerable communities, improve border security with neighbouring states and intensify efforts to identify and arrest those responsible.
The governor also urged residents to cooperate with security agencies by providing credible information that could help prevent further attacks.
Benue has witnessed repeated attacks linked to the long-running conflict between farming communities and armed groups, forcing thousands from their homes and raising fresh concerns over security in rural communities.
The latest violence is expected to increase pressure on security agencies and both the state and federal governments to deliver lasting solutions to the crisis.
Security operations are expected to continue across the affected communities as authorities investigate the attacks and monitor the situation to prevent further violence.
Prime Brief Media will continue to provide verified updates as more information becomes available.
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