At least 107 bodies have been recovered following a devastating early morning attack by suspected armed herdsmen on the Yelewata community in Benue State.
According to reports, the assault took place in the early hours of Saturday, when gunmen invaded the peaceful settlement, killing numerous residents and leaving many others injured.
By Saturday afternoon, local sources confirmed that more than 100 bodies had been recovered from the area.
Victims included women, children, the elderly, and some security personnel.
Eyewitnesses recounted harrowing scenes, with several bodies burned beyond recognition. Distraught residents were seen sifting through the rubble, desperately searching for missing family members.
A local resident, Gberindyer Vanen, wrote in distress: “I just drove past Yelewata now. Human beings are still burning inside their homes. You can perceive the smell of roasted human flesh.”
Another resident of the community, Elder Zege Orkwande, also took to social media to share the grim update.
He wrote, “So far, 107 bodies found while the search is still in progress. Pray for Yelewata, pray for Benue State. Our leaders’ failures in insecurity is obvious.”
The Benue State Police Command confirmed the incident in a statement but did not disclose the official death toll.
As of the time of this report, the Benue State Government has yet to issue any statement regarding the attack.
In response to the tragedy, House of Representatives hopeful for Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, Engr Thaddeus Orkpe, expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the affected families.
In his message, Engr. Orkpe said: “I am deeply saddened by the senseless and brutal attack that claimed the lives of innocent citizens in Yelewata. My thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families and the entire community during this time of immense sorrow.
“This act of violence is not only condemnable but a tragic reminder of the urgent need to strengthen security and ensure justice for all.”
