Residents of Kadarko and surrounding settlements in Nasarawa State are living in fear following a violent attack in Yelwata, a community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State, which reportedly left scores of people dead.
The incident, which occurred late at night, sent shockwaves through the region, triggering a mass exodus of villagers—many of whom sought refuge in nearby bushes and farmlands.
Eyewitnesses described the attack as sudden and overwhelming. Mr. Mathias Tolum, a local farmer from the border area, said he and his family fled their home amid the deafening sound of gunfire.
“The gunshots were terrifying—it felt like a war zone. We couldn’t wait to find out what was happening; we just ran,” he recounted.
According to Tolum, many families in his village and nearby communities have since abandoned their homes, fearing a possible spread of the violence. “Our children, our women—everyone is on edge. We feel exposed, and many of us are beginning to question whether we are truly protected,” he said.
Residents are urging the authorities to strengthen security in the region and prevent further attacks, particularly in rural areas where vulnerable populations, including displaced persons, remain at risk.
Local officials have yet to confirm the total number of casualties, but humanitarian organizations working in the area are calling for immediate intervention to assist displaced families and to prevent further instability.
While investigations are ongoing, state security agencies have been deployed to the area to restore calm and reassure residents. Authorities have appealed for calm and cooperation from all communities, urging against the spread of unverified claims or inflammatory narratives that could escalate tensions.
