Eight people killed in Benue cult clashes as violence spreads across Makurdi, Otukpo, Gboko, and Jato Aka, authorities vow intensified security measures

At least eight people have been killed as rival cult clashes continue to spread across Benue State, authorities confirmed on Thursday.

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Initial reports indicated that two people were killed in Jato Aka, Kwande Local Government Area, but subsequent incidents in Otukpo, Makurdi, and Gboko have driven the death toll higher.

State Police Command spokesperson Udeme Edet earlier disclosed the Jato Aka incident, confirmed that recent attacks stem from territorial disputes among rival gangs.

In Makurdi, three people were shot dead in separate incidents around midnight on Wednesday.

Victims included a young man known as Mr Hundred, shot opposite the Wurukum Mosque; Martins Dagba, also called Wonder, killed near Solace Hotels; and Aondoaseer Yisa, known as Poka, who was shot on Usman Street in the Wurukum area.

Eyewitnesses described the attackers as disappearing immediately after the shootings.

The Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Joseph Keffi, condemned the killings, describing them as “senseless” and extending condolences to the families and communities affected.

Through his Special Adviser on Security and Political Matters, Mark Terhide, he assured residents that the council is collaborating closely with security agencies to restore peace and strengthen community safety.

He emphasised the importance of community vigilance, urging residents to report suspicious activity to security forces, and reiterated his administration’s commitment to rebuilding communities and promoting sustainable development across the local government area.

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Authorities in Benue have intensified efforts to tackle cult-related activities, including the arrest of four suspected cult members in Gboko last week, which followed a separate rival cult clash that resulted in two deaths.