At least 40 people were reportedly killed when unknown gunmen attacked Ayati community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State on Thursday.

A youth leader in the area, who wished to remain anonymous for security reasons, confirmed the incident.

He said:

“More than 40 people were killed and many were injured. Residents of the village have fled to neighboring communities for safety.

“As of yesterday, security personnel had not yet arrived at the community. It was a deadly situation.”

In a post on his Facebook page, an Ukum community leader, Mr. Abraham Waroh, lamented the attacks on Ayati.

He said:

“Over 40 were killed in Ayati yesterday evening. This is the same place where people were killed previously, which led to a protest that was later hijacked by hoodlums.

“After such incidents, one would have expected the government to ensure a strong security presence in Ayati to prevent further killings. Instead, the government was busy forming committees to look into the crisis.

“I have never witnessed such poor handling of a security issue in my entire life.”