Heightened tension in Benue as armed herdsmen seize Dyom community
By Titus Atondu, Makurdi
Residents of Dyom community in the Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State are currently living under intense fear as armed herdsmen and notorious bandits have reportedly taken over farmlands and residential areas.
Sources who spoke to Nigerian NewsDirect on condition of anonymity revealed that the armed groups and herdsmen have established strongholds within and around Dyom.
The sources claim that the herdsmen frequently set up camps near homes, only retreating into nearby farms when security operatives or members of the local vigilante outfit, Anyam Nyor, are sighted.
The situation has been described as "unbearable and dangerous" by residents.
Terhile Uma, a local, lamented the constant threat: "Our house is close to Dyom settlement, and whenever the Fulani hear that soldiers or Benue security outfit code name 'Anyam Nyor' are around, they quickly leave our compound and hide in our farms. The suspected bandits and their boys are everywhere. We can’t eat, farm, or even move freely around our home."
Fear of reprisal attacks has reportedly silenced most villagers. Reports suggest the bandits are operating with a similar impunity to the late notorious gang leader Terwase Agwaza, alias Gana, by imposing taxes on market days and assuming local authority.
The escalating insecurity has had a devastating effect on the area's economy. Many families have abandoned their farms, while others remain trapped in their homes under constant threat of violence, leading to a rise in food shortages and displacement.
When contacted regarding the situation, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), DSP Edem Edet, stated that she was yet to receive reports of the incident.
As of the time of filing this report, security agencies have not issued any official statement on the development. Consequently, community leaders are urgently appealing for swift intervention from both the Benue State Government and military authorities to restore peace and protect the residents.