Despite President Tinubu’s visit to Benue on Wednesday to address the Yelwata massacre, tensions remain high across the state.
In Uvir Ward, Guma Local Council, Fulani herdsmen and thousands of cattle entered nearby farmlands between Wednesday and Thursday, sparking fears among local farmers.
An eyewitness, Samuel Jootar, said the cattle were grazing freely, while Selumun described the situation as alarming:
“These herders just appeared with thousands of cattle, moving freely across our farmlands. People are afraid. We’ve not provoked anyone, but our farmers are already abandoning their homes and crops.”
Meanwhile, local youths in Ushongo Local Council intercepted a bus carrying unknown cargo and several Fulani men.
Though the police intervened, led by CSP Abubakar Abba, the goods onboard remain an enigma.
The youths’ attempts to inspect the contents were blocked.
Ushongo Council Chairman, Terkimbi Adzu, confirmed the suspects have been transferred to the Special Investigative Bureau, but the vehicle’s contents are still undisclosed.
Adding to the instability, Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) from Yelwata held a protest in Makurdi, accusing officials of neglect and diversion of relief materials.
They gathered near Makurdi International Market, blocking traffic, as they demanded immediate action on the dire conditions in their camp.
A female IDP held a placard and explained their plight:
“There’s no food, our children are starving, we sleep on the floor, and mosquitoes are almost killing us. We are suffering, and people are dying.”
They accused camp officials of hoarding donations, including food and mattresses from Pastor Paul Enenche, and urged the government and humanitarian agencies to ensure transparent distribution.
At the time of filing this report, officials had not issued a formal response.
NYSC Evacuates Corps Members Amid Rising Violence
The NYSC Benue State Coordinator, Mrs Veronica Garba, revealed that Corps members from Yelewata and Daudu have been relocated to family houses in Makurdi.
She reassured parents that all members are accounted for:
“We do not joke with the safety of our Corps members… We do a head count… none was missing.”
She added that all security chiefs have moved into Benue and stated:
“God who is the safest security is everywhere; He is with your children too.”
