15 Benue Attack Victims Buried In Mass Grave In Otukpo

Fifteen people killed in an attack on Efeyi-Utikpi community in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State have been buried in a mass grave.

The victims, including women and children, were killed on July 28 when suspected armed herders attacked the farming community in Ugboju District.

Residents, relatives and community members gathered on Saturday for the burial, which came amid renewed calls for stronger security in rural parts of the state.

Daily Post reported that the attack left several residents traumatised and homes destroyed. Premium Times said community leaders urged the federal and state governments to move beyond condemnations and provide better protection for farming communities.

The burial came less than three weeks after eight people killed in another attack on Otukpo-Nobi were buried. Premium Times said police had described that July 12 attack as a terrorist attack in which five adults and three children were killed.

A representative of Equipping the Persecuted, a United States-based organisation, reportedly announced financial assistance for families of the victims and local vigilante groups.

The latest burial adds to concerns over attacks on Benue farming communities, where insecurity has disrupted farming and forced some residents away from their homes.

Sources: Daily Post, Premium Times