Tragic Massacre in Ayati Village, Benue State: Over 30 Lives Lost in Brutal Attack”

On August 8, 2024, a horrifying attack unfolded in Ayati village, located in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, as gunmen launched a brutal assault on the unsuspecting community. According to a statement released by the Benue State Police Command, the attackers, armed to the teeth, stormed the village in broad daylight, indiscriminately opening fire on the residents. The deadly rampage, which occurred at approximately 16:30 hours, claimed the lives of 15 civilians and two police officers who bravely attempted to repel the assailants.

Anene Catherine, the Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Benue State Police Command, provided details of the tragic incident. She explained that the police officers stationed within the community responded immediately to the distress call and engaged the gunmen in a fierce gunfight. Despite their efforts, 15 people sustained fatal gunshot wounds and were pronounced dead upon arrival at the General Hospital in Ukum. The attack also resulted in the loss of two courageous police officers who died in the line of duty. Their bodies have been taken to the hospital morgue as the police launch an investigation into the attack.

Ayati Village: A Recurring Target of Violence

The recent massacre in Ayati is not an isolated incident but part of a disturbing pattern of violence in the community. Just a few weeks ago, the village witnessed a violent protest that led to the destruction of both personal and government properties. This unrest was fueled by the killing of 11 people in the same community, a tragedy that had already left the residents in despair.

Shima Ayati, a prominent community leader and one-time governorship aspirant in Benue State, confirmed the attack in a telephone interview on Friday. Ayati disclosed that the bandits, who were reportedly paid by the herders to graze their animals in two council wards, launched the attack after a confrontation with local farmers. The farmers had sought the government’s intervention, leading to the deployment of security forces who chased the herders away and burned their makeshift tents. The herders, enraged by the destruction of their property and the perceived betrayal after paying for grazing rights, allegedly teamed up with the bandits to retaliate, resulting in the massacre.

Police Commissioner Visits Scene as Investigation Begins

Following the devastating attack, Benue State Commissioner of Police, Hassan Steve Yabanet, wasted no time in visiting Ayati village for an on-the-spot assessment of the situation. His visit was intended to evaluate the damage, offer condolences to the grieving families, and reassure the community of the police force’s commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice. Commissioner Yabanet expressed his deep sorrow over the loss of innocent lives and vowed to intensify efforts to combat the criminal elements threatening the peace and security of the region.

In a statement released after his visit, Commissioner Yabanet emphasized that the police would leave no stone unturned in their investigation, pledging that all resources would be deployed to track down the attackers. He also commended the fallen officers for their bravery, noting that their sacrifice would not be in vain. The police chief urged the residents of Ayati and surrounding communities to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement agencies as they work to restore peace and order.

Governor Alia Of Benue State Condemns Attack, Pledges Enhanced Security Measures

Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has strongly condemned the attack on Ayati village, expressing his deep concern over the persistent violence in the state despite ongoing security measures and efforts to foster peace through dialogue. In a statement issued by his media aide, Tersoo Kula, Governor Alia conveyed his condolences to the families of the victims and assured them of his administration’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the lives and property of all Benue residents.

Governor Alia described the attack as a heinous crime against innocent citizens and emphasized that his administration would continue to employ lawful means to protect the people of Benue, particularly those in Ukum LGA, which has recently been a hotspot for such violent incidents. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the recurring attacks but vowed to reinforce security across the state. The governor also called on stakeholders, traditional rulers, and community leaders to collaborate with the government in its efforts to restore lasting peace to the troubled region.

Benue State’s Middle Belt Region: A Hotbed of Tensions

Benue State is located in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, a region notorious for its complex and often violent conflicts. The area serves as a geographical and cultural boundary between the predominantly Muslim North and the largely Christian South. This unique positioning has made the Middle Belt a flashpoint for clashes, particularly over land use. The competition between farmers, who are mostly indigenous Christians, and herders, who are predominantly Muslim, has led to frequent and deadly conflicts.

These land disputes are further complicated by ethnic and religious differences, making it difficult to resolve the issues peacefully. The attack on Ayati village is the latest in a series of violent incidents that have plagued the region, underscoring the urgent need for sustainable conflict resolution strategies. As tensions continue to simmer, the government faces the daunting challenge of addressing the root causes of the conflict to prevent further bloodshed in Benue and other parts of the Middle Belt.