The identities of at least nine residents of Edikwu Ankpali in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State killed in a fresh attack by suspected terrorists have been revealed.
Community sources who spoke with Sahara Reporters said the victims were mostly breadwinners whose deaths have left families devastated and heightened fears over persistent violence in the area.
A community member lamented the scale of the tragedy, urging that the human cost of the attacks be acknowledged.
The source said, “This isn’t farming but burial. Before we move on like people of zero empathy, these are the details that must be put out for the world to see.
“The world needs to understand that these are not just numbers. These are fathers, sons, and leaders whose absence will be felt for generations.”
Among those killed was 31-year-old Elaigwu Pelu, described as a father of four who had struggled to build a life after losing his parents early.
Also killed was Oigene Ogah, 62, a family patriarch with 15 children, and Adah Aboje, 78, remembered for raising 35 children.
Other victims included Peter Omafu, 59, a father of 13; John Peter Musa, 33, who had two young children; and Ogagwu John, 31, a father of three.
Eluma Ogbeni, 30, who catered for four children, John Elegbo, 39, a father of five, and Gideon Monday, 29, described as his parents’ only son, were also among those killed.
Residents said the attack has left several households without their primary providers.
Community Deserted After Attacks
The latest killings come days after another attack in the Mbatsaida community, where about 11 people were reportedly killed.
When visited, the once-busy agrarian settlement was largely deserted, with homes abandoned and farmlands left unattended.
Displaced residents have taken refuge in the neighbouring Agena community, where they now struggle to survive.
The village head, Chief Gbakaa Lorpine, said the crisis in the area dates back to 2014, alleging repeated warnings to authorities were ignored.
“This issue started long ago, since 2014. We were first attacked by herdsmen on March 24, 2014… The attackers invaded the community, shooting repeatedly and killing 15 people,” he said.
He described the latest incident as sudden and devastating.
“The attack happened… around 5:12 p.m. They entered through the marketplace and started shooting. Eleven people were killed, and several others were wounded,” he said.
Lorpine said he narrowly escaped death during the attack.
“At the time, I was in my house. I had to run into the bush wearing only my underwear. I could not go back inside to pick up any clothing because of the attack,” he added.
