An attack in central Nigeria has resulted in multiple casualties and displacement, as authorities respond to the latest incident of violence.

Gunmen attacked Yelwata village in Nigeria’s Benue state on Friday night, leading to numerous fatalities and injuries. Returning to the village the next morning, resident Fidelis Adidi found the remains of his wife and four children. His second wife and another child sustained serious injuries.

According to Amnesty International, around 100 people were killed in the incident. Burned bodies were discovered alongside damaged food stocks and farming tools.

The Middle Belt region of Nigeria has faced periodic violence involving farmers and herders, often related to disputes over land use and influenced by wider ethnic and religious dynamics. Authorities continue efforts to address these longstanding tensions.

President Bola Tinubu described the recent incident as “depressing” and plans to visit Benue on Wednesday, marking his first visit to the area since taking office. The National Emergency Management Agency reported that approximately 3,000 people have been displaced and are receiving support.

Market trader Talatu Agauta, who sought refuge in the state capital Markudi during the attack, returned to find her rice stock destroyed. Despite the losses, she remains committed to staying in the community.

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