Scores of residents have been reportedly killed following a deadly early morning attack on Sai Community in Mbajir Council Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.

Sources from the community disclosed that the assailants stormed the area around 2:00 a.m. on Wednesday, unleashing violence on unsuspecting residents.

A resident, who spoke anonymously in a telephone interview, revealed that the attackers moved from house to house, shooting sporadically and forcing villagers to flee into nearby bushes for safety.

“Some armed herders invaded Sai Community around 2 a.m. They went from house to house, shooting and causing panic. Many people ran into the bush to escape,” the source said.

He added that as residents returned at daybreak, at least 10 bodies had been recovered, while several injured victims were taken to a hospital in Katsina-Ala for treatment.

As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had yet to issue an official statement on the incident. Attempts to reach the Police Public Relations Officer were unsuccessful, as calls to his phone went unanswered.

Meanwhile, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has condemned the attack, describing it as a senseless and cowardly act of violence.

In a statement issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, the governor called on security agencies to immediately deploy additional personnel to Sai and neighbouring communities to prevent further attacks.

He also directed security operatives to launch a manhunt for the perpetrators and ensure they are brought to justice.

“The unfortunate incident, which occurred in the early hours of July 1, left scores dead and many others injured. It was allegedly carried out by terrorists masquerading as herdsmen,” the statement read in part.

Governor Alia further emphasized the need to guarantee the safety of farmers, noting that the attack came at a critical period when many had returned to their farms.

“This attack is an ugly, cowardly and unacceptable act of violence, particularly at a time when our farmers are working hard on their lands. These enemies of progress are attempting to disrupt the peace and food security of our state,” he said.

The governor extended his condolences to the families of the victims and assured residents of his administration’s commitment to protecting lives and property.

“We will not allow the forces of darkness to drive you away from your lands or dampen your spirits. We remain committed to building a peaceful and secure Benue,” the statement added.

Katsina-Ala Local Government Area remains one of the flashpoints of recurring violent attacks in Benue State, often linked to armed herders and bandit groups.