Breaking news: Suspected Fulani gunmen kill 95 in Benue

Gunmen, believed to be armed Fulani mercenaries, said to be numbering more than 70, early today, invaded the Egba settlement of Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, killing no fewer that 95 persons, mostly women and children.

The gunmen had wreaked havoc on Benue communities at the weekend.

The member representing Apa/Agatu at the Benue State House of Assembly, Audu Sule, said over 60 lifeless bodies had so far been evacuated.

Sule explained that the attackers usually crossed over from Nasarawa State to kill the people without any form of provocation.

The lawmaker said the survivors were now taking refuge in Obagaji/Ogbalu, the headquarters of Agatu LGA.

A resident, who fled the area, gave his name as Oche, claimed he have narrowly escaped the onslaught.

He told of our correspondent that the casualty figure might increase to 100, stressing that he witnessed the recovery of about 80 dead bodies.

Oche said most of the dead bodies recovered were those of women, children and the aged, adding that almost all the houses in the settlement were burnt by the attackers.

The Peoples Democratic Party deputy governorship candidate, John Ngbede, said on the telephone that the Federal Government should send troops to curtail the continuous attacks on Benue communities.

A female lawyer and activist, Sonia Ajoko, called on the government to immediately send relief materials to ameliorate the suffering as well as declare a mourning day for the victims.

Ajoko said, “The loss is monumental especially of what we hear of women and children and I call on the government at all levels to immediately send relief materials as well as declare a day to mourn and commiserate with the bereaved families.”

The Police Commissioner in the state, Hyacinth Dagala, confirmed the attacks but said 30 people had been confirmed dead.

Punch