Residents of Yelwata community, located in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, staged a protest following the tragic killing of three individuals by suspected herdsmen on the morning of August 11, 2025.
The devastating attack struck just two months after a horrific incident in which over 100 residents were massacred in the same area, highlighting the ongoing violence that plagues the community.
Witnesses reported that the three victims, who were members of the same family, had previously endured immense loss, as they were part of a family that suffered the death of 19 relatives during the brutal attacks on June 13.
In addition to the fatalities, three others sustained injuries and are currently receiving medical attention at a local hospital.
The recurrence of violence in Yelwata has left the residents in a state of anguish and anger, prompting them to take action.
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In response to the killings, locals blocked the Makurdi-Lafia Highway, significantly disrupting traffic for several hours. The protesters displayed the bodies of the victims on the highway as a grim testament to their loss, drawing attention to the escalating violence affecting their community.
The incident has ignited a passionate response from the community, which is calling for greater intervention and support from the government to combat the threats they face daily.