On Wednesday, January 7, 2026, violent confrontations broke out in several parts of Benue State, Nigeria, following renewed hostilities between rival cult groups. As events unfolded across different locations, the clashes resulted in the loss of eight lives within a short period. Most notably, the incidents occurred in Makurdi, the state capital, and Jato Aka, a community in Kwande Local Government Area. From late-night shootings to mid-morning confrontations, residents witnessed fear, panic, and confusion as the situation escalated. As 8 Killed in Deadly Clash Between Cult Gangs in Benue.
Although security agencies later moved in to restore order, the violence left families grieving and communities unsettled. At the same time, authorities began investigations to determine how the confrontations spread so quickly across towns and why previous tensions resurfaced with such intensity. This report presents a detailed account of where the incidents happened, when they occurred, and how officials and residents responded. Read also 42 Killed in Iran as Protests Continue
How the Violence Started in Makurdi
Late on Tuesday night, January 6, 2026, calm still prevailed in most parts of Makurdi. However, shortly before midnight, residents of Wurukum, a densely populated neighbourhood, began hearing repeated gunshots. As the sounds echoed through the area, people rushed indoors, while others hid behind nearby structures. Meanwhile, fear spread rapidly as rumours of armed groups moving through the streets circulated.
According to eyewitness accounts, armed youths arrived in small groups and targeted specific locations. Rather than acting randomly, they moved swiftly from one spot to another. Consequently, several people sustained gunshot wounds, while others lost their lives before help could arrive. Community members later explained that the attackers disappeared almost immediately after each shooting.
At approximately 12:15 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, one victim was shot opposite the Wurukum Mosque. Shortly afterward, another shooting occurred beside Solace Hotels, while a third incident happened along Usman Street. Because these locations sit close to one another, panic intensified as residents feared the violence might spread further.
By the time the gunfire stopped, three people had lost their lives in Makurdi. Locals identified the victims as young men known within the community. Although emergency responders later arrived, the attackers had already fled the area.
Community Reaction After the Makurdi Shootings
Following the shootings, residents gathered cautiously at daybreak to assess the damage. Many described the night as one of the most frightening experiences they had ever faced. Some families searched for missing relatives, while others remained indoors out of fear. As a result, businesses delayed opening, and movement remained limited throughout the morning.
Community leaders also expressed concern about the growing presence of violent youth groups. In response, they called for stronger collaboration between residents and security agencies. They stressed that timely information sharing could help prevent similar attacks in the future.
Meanwhile, police patrols increased in Wurukum and surrounding neighbourhoods. Officers conducted stop-and-search operations and monitored known hotspots. Although tension remained high, the visible security presence helped calm residents as the day progressed.
Mid-Morning Clash in Jato Aka, Kwande LGA
While Makurdi residents attempted to recover from the night’s events, violence erupted again later that morning in Jato Aka, a town located in Kwande Local Government Area. At around 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, January 7, reports reached the police of a confrontation between two rival cult groups.
According to official statements, the groups involved had a long-standing rivalry. As tensions resurfaced, members confronted each other openly within the community. Consequently, the confrontation turned violent, leading to the use of weapons.
Security personnel from the Jato Aka Division responded after receiving distress calls. Upon arrival, officers attempted to disperse the groups and secure the area. Despite their efforts, two individuals lost their lives during the clash, while several others sustained injuries.
Medical personnel later transported the injured victims to nearby health facilities for treatment. At the same time, police arrested several suspects believed to be directly involved in the confrontation.
8 Killed in Deadly Clash Between Cult Gangs in Benue: Confirmed Casualties
As authorities compiled reports from different locations, the total number of fatalities linked to the clashes reached eight. Besides Makurdi and Jato Aka, earlier confrontations in other towns contributed to the death toll.
In Otukpo, one person reportedly lost his life during a related confrontation earlier in the week. Similarly, in Gboko, two deaths occurred following a separate clash connected to the same rivalry. When combined with the three deaths in Makurdi and the two fatalities in Jato Aka, the number rose to eight.
This pattern suggested that the violence did not begin in one location alone. Instead, it appeared to spread gradually across multiple local government areas. Consequently, security agencies viewed the situation as a coordinated resurgence of cult-related hostilities rather than isolated incidents.
Eyewitness Accounts Describe Fear and Confusion
Residents who witnessed the violence described moments of intense fear. One resident of Wurukum explained that the gunshots came without warning. According to him, people screamed and ran for safety, while others lay flat on the ground to avoid stray bullets.
Similarly, a shop owner near Solace Hotels recalled hearing rapid gunfire followed by sudden silence. As he explained, the attackers moved quickly and left the area before anyone could react. Because of this, identifying them proved difficult.
In Jato Aka, witnesses described a different scene. There, the confrontation happened openly during the morning hours. As people went about their daily activities, rival groups confronted each other, leading to chaos in the streets.
Security Agencies Respond and Make Arrests
Following the incidents, the Benue State Police Command confirmed that officers had arrested several suspects. According to police spokesperson DSP Udeme Edet, security personnel recovered weapons during the operation.
Furthermore, the police assured residents that investigations would continue until all those responsible faced justice. They also urged members of the public to provide useful information that could assist ongoing efforts.
As part of preventive measures, patrols increased across affected areas. Checkpoints appeared at strategic locations, while officers monitored known gathering points. These actions aimed to deter further violence and reassure residents.
Statements From Local Authorities
The Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Joseph Keffi, condemned the killings in strong terms. According to him, the loss of innocent lives deeply saddened the local administration.
He further urged youths to reject violence and embrace peaceful dialogue. In addition, he called on parents, community leaders, and religious figures to play active roles in guiding young people away from destructive activities.
Similarly, traditional leaders in affected communities appealed for calm. They emphasized that continued violence would only worsen insecurity and slow development.
8 Killed in Deadly Clash Between Cult Gangs in Benue: Underlying Factors
Although investigations continue, analysts point to several possible factors behind the renewed clashes. In many communities, cult groups compete for influence, control, and recognition. Over time, unresolved disputes often resurface, especially when rival members encounter one another.
Additionally, unemployment and social pressure make some youths vulnerable to recruitment. As these groups expand, conflicts become more frequent and more violent.
Experts also note that easy access to weapons increases the severity of confrontations. Consequently, minor disputes can quickly escalate into deadly encounters.
Impact on Families and Communities
Beyond official statistics, the human cost remains significant. Families of the victims mourn loved ones lost unexpectedly. In several cases, the deceased served as breadwinners, leaving dependents behind.
Communities also suffer long-term effects. Fear limits social interaction, while businesses struggle due to reduced movement. As a result, economic activity slows, and trust among residents weakens.
Community groups have therefore called for counseling support and conflict resolution programs. They believe such initiatives could help heal wounds and prevent future violence.
Calls for Peace and Long-Term Solutions
In the aftermath of the violence, civil society groups urged the government to invest more in youth empowerment programs. According to them, providing education, skills training, and employment opportunities could reduce the appeal of violent groups.
They also recommended stronger collaboration between communities and security agencies. By sharing information early, residents could help prevent planned attacks.
Religious leaders joined the call, emphasizing forgiveness, dialogue, and reconciliation as paths toward lasting peace.
What Happens Next
As investigations continue, authorities have promised transparency and accountability. Police officials stated that suspects already in custody would face prosecution once investigations conclude.
Meanwhile, residents hope that sustained security presence will deter further violence. Although fear remains, many believe that collective effort can restore peace.
For now, Benue State mourns the eight lives lost during the clashes. However, many residents also express determination to rebuild trust and prevent similar tragedies in the future.
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