Insecurity Deepens as Herdsmen Kill 144 in Plateau and Benue Within Two Weeks

The persistent wave of violence in Nigeria’s North Central region has taken a disturbing turn, as no fewer than 144 individuals have lost their lives in Plateau and Benue states within the past 14 days, following a series of brutal attacks attributed to suspected herdsmen.

The spate of killings has raised fresh concerns over the nation’s deteriorating security situation. In the latest attack, which occurred late Tuesday, at least 13 more people were confirmed dead, while several others sustained varying degrees of injuries. In addition to the human casualties, over 50 residential structures were set ablaze during the onslaught, displacing numerous families and leaving entire communities in mourning.

Local sources report that the attacks were carried out in multiple waves, with armed assailants storming villages in coordinated operations, often during the night when residents are most vulnerable. The affected communities are primarily agrarian and have repeatedly found themselves at the center of long-standing clashes involving herders and farmers over land and grazing rights.

Community leaders in both states have called for urgent intervention by federal and state authorities. According to eyewitnesses, the slow response from security agencies has further exacerbated the crisis, leaving many communities feeling abandoned and helpless in the face of continued assaults.

In Plateau State, traditional rulers and civil society groups have condemned the attacks, urging the federal government to deploy additional security forces and implement long-term strategies to address the root causes of the violence. Meanwhile, in Benue, state officials described the attacks as "barbaric and unacceptable," calling for immediate investigations and justice for the victims.

As tensions remain high, humanitarian concerns are also mounting. Displacement camps in the region are reportedly overstretched, and access to food, medical care, and shelter is increasingly limited.

The federal government has yet to issue an official statement on the latest killings. However, security analysts warn that unless decisive action is taken, the escalating violence could further destabilize the region and undermine ongoing efforts at peace and reconciliation.