Five Killed, Many Abducted as Suspected Herdsmen Launch Deadly Ambush on Ortese Community in Benue State

At least five people have been confirmed dead, several others injured, and an unidentified number of residents abducted following a deadly attack on Ortese community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The violent incident occurred on Tuesday, December 24, 2025, along the Igyungu Aze–Yogbo Road, triggering panic and a mass displacement of residents.

Local sources disclosed that the attack was allegedly carried out by suspected armed herdsmen, who reportedly staged a coordinated ambush along the road. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers barricaded the Ortese–Yogbo route before opening fire indiscriminately on commuters and villagers who were either travelling or hiding in nearby bushes.

Among those killed were Solo Uchi, Alhaji Iorlaha, and Tersoo Uker, while two other victims are yet to be formally identified. Community members fear the death toll may rise, as several residents remain missing and local youths continue search efforts in surrounding bushes and farmlands.

One of the deceased, Tersoo Uker, was an Internally Displaced Person (IDP) who had fled earlier violence and was living in the Igyungu Aze camp. He was reportedly gathering grass behind the camp to roof a makeshift shelter due to severe overcrowding when he was attacked and killed.

Residents described the scene as horrifying, recounting how some victims were shot dead instantly, while others were chased into the bush during the assault. A local youth leader said the attackers deliberately targeted vulnerable civilians, leaving the community traumatised.

“This attack happened just two days after another deadly incident in Daudu where two people were killed,” a community source said, highlighting a worrying pattern of recurring violence in the area.

The abduction of several residents has intensified fear, forcing many families to flee Ortese community for safer locations. Survivors are reportedly taking refuge in neighbouring towns and IDP camps amid growing insecurity.

The latest incident has renewed calls for urgent government intervention, enhanced security deployment, and decisive action to curb persistent attacks in Benue State, which has long been plagued by communal violence, armed herdsmen attacks, and mass displacement.

As of the time of reporting, security agencies had yet to release an official statement, while residents continue to demand protection and accountability to prevent further bloodshed.