Suspected armed herdsmen have reportedly killed several people in a fresh attack on communities in Mbaterem, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, in the early hours of Sunday.
The attackers, apparently on motorcycles, invaded the communities of Ayaba, Ukpen, Bom, Aboajio and Yina around 5am, shooting sporadically and forcing residents to flee into the bushes for safety.
One resident, Emmanuel Oryiman Mbatsavdue, said four people had been confirmed dead in Aboajio alone, as residents continued to search for missing relatives.
He added that the number of victims could increase as the search continues.
The Executive Chairman of Ukum LGA, Hon. Jonathan Modi confirmed that an attack took place, but said the exact number of victims has not yet been established.
He said security officers were still in the bush assessing the situation.
When contacted, the spokesperson of Benue State Police Command, DSP Orchia Aondogwu, confirmed that there was an attack in Ukum local government area.
He said more details would be communicated as soon as they became available.