Reports from Benue State have it that the death toll from the invasion of Tiv settlements in Gwer West Local Government Area of the state by Fulani herdsmen on Sunday has risen to 43.
This figure was given by the President and Secretary of Tyoshin Youth Association, Joseph Mom and Dr. Joseph Kerker, at a news conference in Makurdi on Wednesday.
They said they remain in shock about the scake of destruction that stemmed from the invasion of their land by Fulani herdsmen.
The position of the association, read from a communique issued after the end of their meeting, said in part: “We consider this as a cruel and barbaric act, since we do not share any boundaries with these invaders.”
The association said the invasion has totally paralysed activities at Gwer West FADAMA area by the south bank of River Benue, which serves as the higest source of agriculture and economic activity of the people of the area, especially rice production and other cereals.
The association added: “We are concerned that despite the effort by the state, local government and security agencies, the invaders have displayed superior military capabilities to overcome and overwhelm our communities.”