Terrorism continues in Benue

Benue, Nigeria – On August 11, Fulani extremists attacked Yelewata province in Benue state again, leaving three dead and several injured. The violence comes just two months after the massacre that claimed the lives of more than 200 people in the same area overnight.

The attack occurred while the victims were working in their fields. “Three people were killed and three others escaped injury, while some managed to escape unharmed,” said a government official who wished to remain anonymous. According to Open Doors, Yelewata is an almost 100% Christian community, and its inhabitants are subsistence farmers; many stayed to take advantage of the rainy season and support their families, despite the underlying risk.

The community reacted with outrage and grief: a group of women blocked the Makurdi–Lafia highway in protest, demanding government guarantees of protection. “Waving fresh leaves, they chanted dirges and demanded that the soldiers leave Yelewata… so they could defend themselves,” The Guardian reported.

This latest attack adds to a string of violent acts that have plunged Benue into fear and displacement. In June, Yelewata was the scene of an attack in which at least 100 people were killed, with reports estimating the true toll between 100 and 200, and more than 3,000 displaced. The conflict, fueled by territorial disputes between Christian farmers and Fulani herders, exacerbated by ethnic and religious tensions and pressure on resources, has left a trail of recurring tragedy.

The situation in Benue highlights the fragility of security in central Nigeria and the urgent need for a robust government response. While the community cries out for justice and protection, the promise of aid and peace remains unfulfilled.