Bloodbath in Benue as rival cult gangs kill 8 in supremacy clash

No fewer than eight persons have been killed in violent clashes between rival cult groups across parts of Benue State, including Makurdi, the state capital, and Jato Aka in Kwande Local Government Area.

The cult-related violence, which has spread across several towns, is believed to be one of the deadliest in recent times. The clashes reportedly began days earlier in Otukpo, where one person was killed, and Gboko, where two others lost their lives, before escalating into Makurdi and Jato Aka on Wednesday.

In Makurdi, three persons were shot dead in separate attacks around the Wurukum area, while two others were killed in Jato Aka, bringing the death toll to eight.

Eyewitnesses said the Makurdi victims were shot at close range in midnight attacks. Those killed were identified as Mr. Hundred, shot opposite Wurukum Mosque; Martins Dagba, also known as Wonder, killed near Solace Hotels; and Aondoaseer Yisa, popularly called Poka, who was shot on Usman Street.

Residents said the attackers fled immediately after the shootings, leaving the community in fear.

Reacting, the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Joseph Keffi, condemned what he described as the “senseless killing of innocent persons” by suspected cult groups. In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Nathaniel Mayorofmbawa, Keffi extended condolences to the affected families and assured residents that his administration was working with security agencies to restore peace.

He urged residents to remain calm, vigilant and report suspicious activities, stressing that community cooperation was key to ending cult-related violence.

Confirming the clash in Jato Aka, the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, said police operatives responded to a violent confrontation between rival cult groups known as Red and Black at about 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday.

According to her, the clash left two male persons dead, while others sustained injuries and were taken to medical facilities. She disclosed that eight suspects were arrested, while others escaped.

The arrested suspects were identified as Adebo Mvaater, Pineter Akurayati, Daniel Ese, Samuel Kwaghzer, Isaac Iorapul, Terungwa Tertese, Aondonenge Aper, and Ternenge Aondokura.

Police also recovered one locally fabricated pistol, one expended cartridge, two axes and two machetes during the operation.

DSP Edet said efforts were ongoing to arrest fleeing suspects, adding that those arrested would be charged to court. She assured residents that the Commissioner of Police remained committed to eradicating cultism and criminal activities across the state.