- Death Toll: At least 144 people killed by herdsmen in Plateau and Benue states.
- Latest Attack: 13 people killed, scores injured, and over 50 houses razed in Otobi Akpa community, Benue State.
- Boko Haram Attack: 7 people killed, many more missing in Adamawa State.
- Government Response: Plateau State Governor prohibits night grazing, restricts cattle transportation and motorcycle use.
- Calls for Action: Human rights lawyer Femi Falana and Northern Elders Forum demand government intervention to restore law and order.
At least 144 people have been killed by herdsmen in Plateau and Benue states in the past two weeks. The latest attack occurred in Otobi Akpa community, Benue State, where 13 people were killed, and scores injured, with over 50 houses razed. The attacks are reportedly linked to resistance against laws banning open grazing.
In a separate incident, Boko Haram insurgents attacked communities in Hong local government area of Adamawa State, killing seven people and leaving many more missing. The insurgents launched the attack in the early hours, using explosives and shooting sporadically.
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has prohibited night grazing, transportation of cattle by vehicles after 7:00 pm, and restricted motorcycle use from 7:00 pm to 6:00 am. The governor emphasized the need to protect lives and property, and to restore calm in the state.
Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has called on President Bola Tinubu to direct the military and police to restore law and order in Plateau and Benue states. The Northern Elders Forum has also expressed deep pain over the bloodshed, describing it as barbaric and a national disgrace, and demanded immediate deployment of security forces to halt the atrocities.
The situation remains tense, with many residents fleeing the affected areas and seeking refuge elsewhere. The government and security agencies are working to restore peace and stability in the region.
