Nigeria: Devastating herdsmen attack in Benue state kills nearly 200, draws international condemnation
By Nfor Hanson Nchanji with reports from local media.
A horrific overnight assault between Friday, June 13, and Saturday, June 14, 2025, left the community of Yelewata in Benue State in ruins, with at least 100 villagers people confirmed dead by Amnesty International Nigeria. Local residents fear the true casualty figure could be much higher, with some estimating up to 476 fatalities, as search and rescue operations continue.
The attack, widely attributed to suspected Fulani herders, unfolded from approximately 10:45 PM until 2:00 AM. Eyewitnesses described a chillingly coordinated operation where one group of assailants reportedly engaged police forces as a diversion, while another moved systematically through the village, pouring fuel and setting homes ablaze. Many families were tragically trapped and burned alive in their residences, with numerous bodies reportedly charred beyond recognition.
Beyond the immense human cost, the attackers deliberately destroyed vital food storage facilities, including barns laden with rice, millet, guinea corn, soya beans, maize, and locust beans. This deliberate act of economic sabotage is expected to severely worsen food insecurity in an already vulnerable region.
Global Outcry and Papal Intervention
The Yelewata massacre has sparked widespread condemnation both within Nigeria and internationally. On Sunday, June 15, 2025, Pope Leo XIV specifically addressed the “terrible massacre” during his Sunday Angelus prayer. Vatican News reported that the Pontiff prayed for the victims, noting that around 200 people were “brutally killed” in Yelewata, many of whom were internally displaced persons (IDPs) “sheltered by the local Catholic mission.”
The Pope’s address emphasized his prayers for “security, justice, and peace” in Nigeria, and he specifically mentioned the “rural Christian communities of the Benue State who have been relentless victims of violence.” This direct appeal from the Vatican highlights the growing international concern over the escalating violence in Nigeria’s Middle Belt.
Local Protests and Government Response
The tragedy ignited immediate public outrage, leading to protests in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, on Sunday. Youth, joined by popular social media influencer Martin Otse (“VeryDarkMan”), converged to demand an end to the incessant killings and urgent government intervention. Protesters notably refused to engage with the Deputy Governor, insisting on a direct audience with Governor Hyacinth Alia. The demonstration was eventually dispersed by police.
Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attacks, acknowledging the deep pain of the victims. He stated that the state government is actively engaging with federal security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders to enhance security. In response to the crisis, the Inspector-General of Police (IGP) has reportedly taken over security operations in Benue State, deploying Special Forces and tactical teams to Yelewata and other affected areas. Military aerial surveillance has also been initiated over Makurdi and its environs. Police officials confirmed engagements with the attackers, resulting in some casualties among the assailants and arrests.
Persistent Conflict in the Middle Belt
The Yelewata massacre is the latest brutal episode in the long-running farmer-herder conflict in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. This complex crisis is driven by a confluence of factors, including increasing competition for dwindling land and water resources due to climate change and population growth. Ethnic and religious divisions often exacerbate these resource conflicts. The proliferation of illegal firearms and a perceived breakdown of traditional conflict resolution mechanisms contribute to the high death toll.
Amnesty International Nigeria has consistently documented an “alarming escalation of attacks” across Benue State, warning that the authorities’ failure to curb the violence is costing lives and livelihoods. Both local and international bodies continue to call for immediate, decisive action from Nigerian authorities to protect civilians, ensure justice for victims, and address the root causes of this protracted and devastating conflict.
