The Federal Government (FG) has confirmed that recent attacks in Benue State have displaced 3,160 individuals and destroyed 48 homes, as violence continues to disrupt the region.
These figures reflect the immediate aftermath of assaults in rural border communities, notably Yelewata, Guma LGA, where gunmen—suspected to be armed herders—attacked villages in mid-June.
While FG data cites 3,160 displaced, human rights groups and aid agencies report much higher numbers. NEMA disclosed that 6,527 people (1,069 households) were displaced in the broader region by June 16.
The discrepancy highlights differing geographic scopes or reporting timelines across sources.
According to FG, 48 homes were confirmed destroyed in the attacks—though satellite and on-ground assessments by journalists and NGOs suggest the damage is likely more extensive.
Amnesty International describes the situation as a humanitarian disaster, citing deaths of more than 100 people in Yelewata, along with dire conditions in makeshift IDP camps for nearly 4,000 displaced people.
The Christian Association of Nigeria and local groups have urged FG to provide compensation, ramp up security, and declare a state of emergency in affected areas.
FG has deployed Special Forces to the affected communities and directed authorities to establish military bases in Yelewata to bolster protection.
President Tinubu personally visited Makurdi (Benue’s capital), called out delays in arrests, and ordered a crackdown on perpetrators, though he stopped short of visiting Yelewata itself.
Humanitarian Relief: Ongoing displacement demands urgent food, shelter, water, healthcare and long-term rehabilitation.
Security Strategy: Military deployment is intensifying, but questions remain about sustainability and local intelligence.
Policy Adjustments: Pressure is mounting on the FG for compensation, rural protection policies (e.g., no-grazing legislation), and breaking security sector impunity.
