At least nine people were reportedly killed in separate attacks by suspected armed herdsmen on Ugboju and Otukpo Nobi communities in Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State over the weekend, according to residents, with many others reportedly injured.

Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State experienced renewed violence over the weekend after separate attacks on two communities left at least nine people reportedly dead and several others injured.

According to community accounts, the first attack occurred on Saturday in Akpachi village, Ugboju community, where suspected armed herdsmen allegedly killed two residents and injured several others.

Less than 24 hours later, another attack was reported in Otukpo Nobi community during the early hours of Sunday. Local sources said at least seven more people were killed while several others sustained injuries.
The incidents have thrown both communities into mourning and intensified concerns over insecurity in Benue South.

Following Sunday's attack, angry youths and residents reportedly marched to the Och'Idoma Palace in Otukpo, calling on the Benue State Government, the Federal Government and security agencies to take urgent measures to protect lives and property.

The latest attacks come weeks after the killing of the Benue State Chairman of the Miyetti Allah Cattle Breeders Association of Nigeria (MACBAN), Alhaji Ardo Risku Mohammed, and his associate, Yakubu Isah, who were ambushed around Okwudu in Otukpo Local Government Area on June 26 while returning from a peace meeting in Ohimini Local Government Area.

Residents say the renewed violence has heightened fear across surrounding communities, with many urging authorities to deploy additional security personnel and intensify efforts to prevent further attacks.

As of the time of publication, Benue Info-pedia has not independently verified the reported casualty figures. Security agencies had not issued an official statement, and the reported death toll may change as rescue and search efforts continue.

Benue Info-pedia will continue to monitor the situation and update this report as more verified information becomes available.