Tragedy Strikes Azege in Benue State as Suspected Herdsmen Kill 13, Raze Farmlands
In the early hours of Sunday morning, a brutal attack perpetrated by suspected herdsmen left 13 people dead and several others injured in the Azege settlement, located in Mbaya, Tombo Ward, Logo Local Government Area of Benue State.
The devastating attack, which occurred around 7 a.m., led to widespread destruction of farmlands and crops, leaving the community in shambles. Eyewitnesses described the scene as harrowing, with survivors grappling with the loss of lives and livelihoods.
Azege, the hometown of Hon. Benjamin Uzenda, the former Caretaker Chairman of Logo Local Government, has faced multiple attacks in recent months. Uzenda confirmed the latest assault and revealed that herdsmen had previously attempted to invade the community twice in the past two months.
“This is not the first time we’ve seen attempts to overrun Azege,” Uzenda said. “While we’ve seen repeated invasions, this morning’s attack was particularly devastating. Thirteen lives were lost, and farmlands were destroyed, exacerbating food insecurity in the area.”
Inhabitants of Azege lamented the loss of crops, as farming is the primary occupation in the community. Uzenda described the attackers as being heavily armed and targeting helpless residents who were preparing to attend morning church service. The invaders allegedly butchered some bodies after shooting them and gunned down women and children.
The attackers, however, fled the scene before security personnel arrived. Fear has gripped the area, with many residents fleeing for their safety. At press time, some wounded individuals were being treated at the Ayilamo PHC, while the council chairman, Hon. Clement, was planning to visit the scene of the attack.
It’s worth noting that Azege is about a 30-minute drive from Ayilamo, the headquarters of Tombo ward, which has faced several bloody attacks and killings in the past.
