Renewed violence has rocked parts of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, following allegations that a local militia group led by a man identified as Oraernyi, popularly known as “Heavy,” is collaborating with armed herders to terrorize communities in Mbajir.
Residents said the latest wave of attacks occurred on Sunday when armed men reportedly invaded Tse Akoso, setting farmlands ablaze and forcing villagers to flee their homes.
A resident, who spoke under anonymity, alleged that a community leader in the area (name withheld) has been issuing threats to anyone speaking about the activities of the armed herders, warning that violators could face dire consequences, including death.
“The threats are intended to silence victims and conceal the involvement of local collaborators in the escalating violence,” the source said.
He further alleged that the militia led by “Heavy” has been working hand-in-hand with the herders in coordinated attacks on villages such as Tse Akoso and Danzulu, creating the false impression that the violence is solely driven by herders.
According to the source, two herders identified as Bado and Musa—believed to have taken part in several raids—are being shielded by the militia and have now relocated to a new hideout between Tse Dunchi and Abony, near the Ukum LGA boundary, an area previously deserted due to earlier attacks.
“This new development could prevent displaced residents from returning home,” he said. “They have also continued destroying yam and cassava farms in Mbajir, worsening the humanitarian situation.”
He appealed to traditional rulers, chairmen of Ukum and Katsina-Ala LGAs, and the Benue State Government to intervene urgently to prevent further bloodshed.
“We call for the immediate withdrawal of the armed herders from our communities to avert more attacks and safeguard our people,” he added.
Efforts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, for comments were unsuccessful as of press time.
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