9 killed as rival militia groups clash in Benue community

From Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

At least, nine persons have been killed, houses and property destroyed following clash by rival militia groups in Mbatyula, Mbayongo, Katsina-Ala local government area of Benue State.
An anonymous source in the area said the militia group also, carried out coordinated serial attacks in parts of Mbatyula council ward.
“We gathered that, on Tuesday, the armed militia stormed Atumbe, a settlement in Mbatyula council ward, set several houses ablaze and made away with alot of property.
“On the same day, they moved to Kur Hile, another settlement in Mbatyula, where they also burnt down some houses. Although, no casualties were recorded.
“Similarly, Anyom settlement still in Mbatyula council ward got it share of attack from the same group at the early hours of Wednesday 17 January, 2024.
“However, the story wasn’t the same here as about 7 persons were reportedly killed and houses were burnt to ashes with property worth millions of naira destroyed”.
Mbayongo is said to be council ward of the late notorious and dreaded criminal, Terwase Akwaza who was killed by the military about four years ago.
Confirming the incident, care taker chairman of Katsina-Ala local government area, Zamzam Francis said, “The incident was between the rival militas. They are burning houses of innocent people and many people are suffering, that is what is happening. Nine people were killed between Monday and now”.
Police Public Relations’ Officer SP Catherine Anene said she is unaware of the incident.