No fewer than 12 persons have reportedly been killed and several others injured following a fresh attack by suspected armed herders on communities in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attack, which occurred on Thursday, targeted Tyungu Jam and Mbaav communities in Yaav and Mbadura council wards of the local government area, forcing residents to flee their homes.

Reacting to the incident, the Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, condemned the killings, describing the attack as “barbaric, senseless and unacceptable.”

In a statement issued on Friday by his Technical Adviser on Media, Publicity and Strategic Communication, Solomon Iorpev, the governor expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and extended condolences to the families of the victims.

“The killing in Kwande Local Government Area is senseless and unacceptable; every life matters. The loss of even one life is too many,” the governor said.

Alia assured residents that his administration would take decisive steps to ensure that those responsible for the attack are brought to justice. He also directed security agencies to intensify efforts to apprehend the perpetrators and prevent further violence in the area.

The governor acknowledged the recent deployment of more than 400 security personnel to Jato Aka and other parts of Kwande but noted that the latest attack showed that additional measures were required to strengthen security.

He appealed to residents of the affected communities to remain calm and cooperate with security operatives working to restore peace.

Local residents said the attack was carried out by suspected herdsmen, adding that many villagers fled into surrounding bushes for safety as gunmen stormed the area.

One resident, who requested anonymity, described the situation as “terrifying,” saying men, women, children and the elderly were forced to run in different directions while homes came under threat.

“Mbaav village, which is close to Jato Aka market, is in panic. Families are scattered and the entire community is in distress. We need urgent security intervention before more lives are lost,” the resident said.

The victims were identified as Shagba Tyokase, Shagba Terease, Liambee Yohane, Tordue Dooshima, Tordue Doove, Liamkpur Aondosoo, Akule John, Adezamber Gyuse, Terundu Tyozuur, and another person whose identity was yet to be confirmed.

Those injured in the attack include Msughaondo Terfa, Nanen Terfa, Aondongu Terfa, Ahembe Shilave, Nguavese Tavershima, and Terfa Doosuur, who are currently receiving treatment.

Residents said a search operation was ongoing in nearby bushes to locate other missing persons.

Communities in Kwande Local Government Area have in recent months witnessed repeated attacks attributed to suspected armed herders, with several residents and two security personnel reportedly killed in earlier incidents.