On Sunday, June 30, 2025, armed herdsmen attacked Udei community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State around 11 a.m.
The attack led to the death of four Mobile Police officers. It happened during the day and caused fear among residents, especially those in nearby communities like Daudu and Ortese. The attackers were later repelled by soldiers and local youths.
Benue State has suffered repeated attacks from armed herdsmen in recent years. Just over two weeks ago, Yelewata community, also in Guma LGA, was invaded by the same group, leaving over 200 people dead and many others injured or displaced. These attacks have become a serious security problem for the state and its people.
According to reports, the attackers first stormed Asha community, where they shot into the air to scare people away from their farms. From there, they moved towards Ortese, a camp for thousands of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs). Military officers in the area quickly responded by using armoured trucks to push back the attackers in the bush before they could enter the camp.
A community leader, Mr. Matthew Mnyan, said the shooting was heavy and lasted for about one hour. He also said the attackers later moved towards Dudu and then attacked Udei at around 2 p.m., where the four police officers were killed during a gun battle.
Mr. Mnyan also added that people in the area, especially in Ortese, are now living in fear. Many IDPs have been calling for more security to protect them from future attacks. He contacted both the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) and the Area Commander, who confirmed that they had sent security forces to the affected areas.
At the time of this report, the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, had not responded to calls or messages regarding the attack.
The people of Benue State are calling for urgent help from the government to stop the killings and make their communities safe again.
