Suspected armed herdsmen have reportedly killed two farmers in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, forcing more residents to flee as communities accuse armed groups of taking over settlements in the area.
LOGO, BENUE STATE — Suspected armed herdsmen have reportedly killed two farmers in Mbakorya community, Mbaiwen district of Tombo council ward, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State, sparking fresh fears among residents already displaced by months of attacks.
The victims, identified as Tor Uyina and Terver Iorbee, were allegedly shot dead on Saturday morning while harvesting corn on their farm.
According to local accounts, the two men had ventured to the farm in search of food after spending days without adequate meals.
A resident, Torbee Igya, who reportedly escaped the attack, told The Nation that the victims were ambushed by armed men suspected to be herders shortly after arriving at the farm.
"They went to harvest corn for breakfast because they had gone days without food. Unfortunately, they were attacked and killed," he said.
Igya alleged that several settlements in Tombo ward had been overrun by heavily armed groups, forcing residents to abandon their homes and seek refuge in safer locations.
According to him, communities including Anyibe, Poovule, Tse Dzungwe, Ibor and parts of Mbaya have been deserted following repeated attacks.
"The herdsmen are not with cattle but are heavily armed. We cannot say they are looking for grazing land. Our people no longer farm because they have taken over our communities," he said.
He added that many displaced residents had fled to Ayilamo, the headquarters of the ward, amid fears of further attacks.
"Even in Ayilamo, there are rumours that they are planning to attack the town, and there is tension everywhere," he said.
The Divisional Police Office in Ugba confirmed the killings and said investigations had commenced.
Tombo council ward has witnessed persistent attacks in recent months, with residents reporting deaths, destruction of property and the displacement of entire communities.
The violence has also reportedly forced the closure of schools and healthcare facilities in parts of Logo Local Government Area.
As of the time of filing this report, many residents were said to be leaving affected communities in search of safety.
What we know so far
Two farmers, Tor Uyina and Terver Iorbee, were killed on Saturday morning.
The attack occurred in Mbakorya community, Tombo ward, Logo LGA.
Residents allege that several settlements have been taken over by armed groups.
Many villagers have fled to Ayilamo amid fears of fresh attacks.
Police say investigations are ongoing.
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