[Pictures] Suspected Herdsmen Kill Vigilante Member, 13 Others in Benue Attack

By Enemona Samuel Endurance

A local vigilante security personnel identified as Emmanuel Uloko, popularly known as Gatuso, has been killed in an attack in Ugboju Icho village, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State, amid reports of a fresh attack in which more than 13 people were allegedly killed.

Vigilante Member Killed at Security Checkpoint

The first incident reportedly occurred in the early hours of Monday, July 27, 2026, after an earlier confrontation between residents and suspected Fulani herders over alleged destruction of farmlands in the community.

According to an eyewitness, trouble began after cattle allegedly entered villagers’ farms and destroyed crops that were nearing harvest.

The eyewitness said the confrontation escalated after the affected villagers reportedly demanded compensation for the damaged crops, but the herders allegedly refused to pay.

Later that night, at about 1am, suspected attackers reportedly invaded a vigilante security checkpoint in the community and shot one of the personnel at close range.

The victim was reportedly shot in the stomach and chest before the attackers fled into the surrounding bushes.

Victim Identified as Emmanuel Uloko

The deceased security personnel was identified as Mr Emmanuel Uloko, popularly known as Gatuso, a resident of IPOM-Ahaje in Ugboju Icho, Otukpo Local Government Area of Benue State.

According to reports, other members of the vigilante group were unable to respond before the attackers escaped from the area.

Following distress calls, personnel of the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigerian Army reportedly arrived in the community a few hours later to help restore normalcy.

The body of the slain vigilante member was subsequently deposited at a mortuary to allow for further investigation and other necessary procedures.

Fresh Attack Reportedly Claims Over 13 Lives

Reports from the community later indicated that suspected Fulani herders moved their wives, cattle and other belongings away from their settlement, while some of the men reportedly remained behind and were allegedly armed with guns and other weapons.

Amid heightened tension in the area, the community was reportedly attacked again on Tuesday night.

According to the reports, more than 13 people, including women and children, were allegedly killed in the fresh attack.

The circumstances surrounding the reported killings could not be independently verified by The Bureau Journal as of the time of filing this report.

Police Yet to Comment on Reported Killings

Efforts to reach the police spokesperson in Otukpo Local Government Area for confirmation and further details were unsuccessful as of press time.

The latest incident has heightened concerns over the security situation in parts of Benue State, with residents facing renewed fears over attacks on farming communities and the safety of local security personnel.

The Bureau Journal will continue to monitor developments and provide updates as more verified information becomes available.