Afia, Ukum Local Government Area, Benue State – April 22, 2025– A shocking incident unfolded in the Afia community of Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State on Tuesday morning, as a man, suspected to be a bandit, unleashed a barrage of gunfire, resulting in the deaths of several individuals.
The suspect, known locally by the nickname “government,” reportedly suffered from mental illness prior to the attack.
Witnesses reported that the suspect recently received treatment for mental health issues and alarmingly armed himself, shooting indiscriminately.
Consequently, local sources revealed that the community was still reeling from a recent wave of violence, where armed herders invaded Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas, resulting in at least 72 deaths.
One resident, who spoke on the condition of anonymity, described the chaos that ensued during the shooting. “People were running in all directions, trying to find safety as the sound of gunfire echoed through the streets. It was terrifying,” they recounted.
Matthew Abo, the State Commissioner for Information, confirmed the incident in a telephone conversation, characterizing the shooter as a bandit.
“I’m not aware of any illness affecting the man.
However, I gathered that a bandit nicknamed ‘government’ began shooting indiscriminately on Tuesday morning, resulting in many deaths,” Abo explained.
Nevertheless, he could not provide an official casualty figure at this time.
In addition, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, Catherine Anene, received inquiries about the incident.
Unfortunately, she stated that she was unaware of the situation.
Consequently, the recent violence in Benue State has raised serious concerns regarding security and resident safety.
Community leaders urgently call for intervention from both state and federal authorities to address the escalating crisis.
As investigations into the shooting continue, local residents grapple with the aftermath of this tragic event. Moreover, this incident has claimed lives and instilled fear within their community.
The state government is expected to release further details as they become available.
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