Not all killings in Benue State are carried out by suspected Islamic bandits or alleged Fulani herders. Much of the violence is internecine, occurring among Benue indigenes divided into rival cult groups, complicating efforts to address insecurity in the state.

No fewer than eight persons have been killed in a deadly supremacy battle between rival cult groups across parts of the state, including Makurdi, the state capital, and Jato Aka in Kwande Local Government Area.

Security sources described the violence as a fierce fight for territorial control, among the deadliest cult-related confrontations in recent times.

The clashes, which began in Otukpo where one person was killed, and later in Gboko where two others were murdered, spilled into Makurdi and Jato Aka on Wednesday.

Three persons were shot dead in Makurdi, while two others were killed in Jato Aka.

An eyewitness reported that the Makurdi victims were attacked at close range around midnight in separate incidents:

• Mr. Hundred was shot opposite Wurukum Mosque.
• Mr. Martins Dagba (“Wonder”) was killed beside Solace Hotels.
• Mr. Aondoaseer Yisa (“Poka”) was shot on Usman Street.

The attackers reportedly vanished immediately after the shootings.

Local Government Response

Chairman of Makurdi LGA, Mr. Joseph Keffi, condemned the killings, describing them as “senseless acts by unknown cult groups.”

In a statement issued by his Media Aide, Nathaniel Mayorofmbawa, Keffi extended condolences to bereaved families and assured residents of his administration’s commitment to peace.

“We are working closely with security agencies and stakeholders to intensify efforts aimed at strengthening security across the Local Government,” he said, urging residents to remain calm, vigilant, and report suspicious movements.

Confirming the clash in Jato Aka, spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, said operatives responded to a violent confrontation between rival cult groups known as Red and Black.

The incident left two men dead and several others injured. Police arrested eight suspects:

• Adebo Mvaater
• Pineter Akurayati
• Daniel Ese
• Samuel Kwaghzer
• Isaac Iorapul
• Terungwa Tertese
• Aondonenge Aper
• Ternenge Aondokura

Recovered items included one locally fabricated pistol, one expended cartridge, two axes, and two machetes.

Edet assured that the suspects would be charged to court, adding: “The Commissioner of Police remains resolute in his determination to eradicate cultism and all forms of criminality across the state.”

The clashes have heightened tension again, leaving local leaders emphasizing the need for community collaboration to defeat criminal elements and entrench lasting peace.