Rafiyat Sadiq
The National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA) has confirmed a growing humanitarian crisis in Benue State following coordinated attacks by unidentified gunmen that have displaced over 6,500 people, including pregnant women, lactating mothers, and the elderly.
Deadly Raid in Guma LGA
In a statement released on Monday via its official X handle, NEMA reported that the most recent assault occurred in the early hours of Saturday in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area. Armed attackers reportedly stormed the community, leaving dozens dead or injured.
“The casualty figures remain inconsistent due to the volatile security situation and limited access to the affected areas,” the agency stated, adding that ongoing rescue and recovery operations are expected to yield more accurate data.
Security Personnel Killed in Ambush
A joint security team was dispatched in response to the violence. “Following a distress alert, the Nigerian Army and the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps were deployed to the scene. Tragically, two soldiers and one NSCDC officer lost their lives in an ambush while responding to the incident in Daudu,” the agency reported.
NEMA noted that “46 people were taken to hospitals with various injuries, and 20 later died. Medical teams are calling for urgent blood donations to support ongoing treatment efforts.”
Police Confirm Gun Battle With Assailants
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the attack and stated that security forces engaged the gunmen. “Some of the assailants were neutralized during an exchange of gunfire,” the police said.
Emergency Relief Efforts Underway
Relief operations have been activated to support the displaced population. “The State Emergency Management Agency, the National Emergency Management Agency, the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees, the Red Cross, and the International Organization for Migration are coordinating relief activities at a newly established internally displaced persons camp at the Makurdi International Market,” NEMA stated.
According to the agency, “over 3,000 individuals, including many women and children, have been displaced and are in urgent need of food, non-food items, potable water, and essential medical supplies.”
Over 6,500 Displaced in Wake of Attacks
As of Sunday night, the total number of displaced persons had risen to 1,069 households, comprising 6,527 individuals. Among them are 1,768 females, 759 males, 657 children under 18, 1,870 adults over 18, 252 lactating mothers, 82 pregnant women, and 91 elderly persons.
The agency noted that, “Urgent humanitarian support is being mobilised and delivered to alleviate the hardship of the displaced persons.”
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
