Four people, including a father and his two children, have reportedly lost their lives following a late-night attack on Abaushwa community in Ndzorov, near Gbajimba, the headquarters of Guma Local Government Area in Benue State.
The deadly incident, which residents say occurred at about 11:00 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026, has been linked to suspected armed herders. The attack sparked panic across the community, forcing many residents to flee their homes in search of safety.
Among those confirmed dead are Mr. Ermberga Akombu, his son, Ter Upool, and his daughter. A fourth victim was also killed, while several others sustained injuries of varying severity during the assault.
The latest attack has once again raised concerns over the persistent security challenges facing Guma Local Government Area, a region that has experienced repeated violent attacks in recent years.
Reacting to the incident, the Executive Chairman of Guma Local Government Council, Hon. Maurice Orwough, condemned the killings, describing the attack as tragic and unacceptable. In a statement released on Tuesday, August 4, through his Personal Assistant on Communication and Strategy, Ernest Tortiv, the chairman extended his condolences to the bereaved families and wished those injured a quick recovery.
He also assured residents that security personnel had been deployed to Abaushwa to restore calm, safeguard lives and property, and prevent further violence.
The chairman appealed to members of the community to remain calm, cooperate with security agencies, and continue providing credible information that could assist ongoing efforts to tackle insecurity in the area.
