As the death toll from recent attacks by suspected herdsmen in Benue State rose to 56, former Minister of Defence, General Theophilus Danjuma (rtd), has renewed his call for Nigerians—particularly residents of Taraba State—to defend themselves against ongoing violent invasions across the country.
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, confirmed the updated casualty figure during an on-the-spot assessment of affected communities in Logo and Ukum Local Government Areas (LGAs), describing the situation as nothing short of “a real war.”
Speaking at an appreciation event in Takum, Taraba State, for his staff and supporters, Danjuma lamented the continued bloodshed in Benue, Plateau, Ondo, and several other states. He warned that the killings, which he again described as “genocide,” have worsened, and urged communities to rise in defence.
“I said it before and I’m saying it again with even greater urgency—defend yourselves. These killers have acquired sophisticated weapons. If they can get them, so can you,” Danjuma said, addressing a large crowd that included Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, and top government officials.
“You must protect your land and your lives. No one is coming to save you unless you’re ready to save yourselves,” the retired army chief added, marking the third time he has publicly issued such a call to action.
In his remarks at the event, Governor Kefas commended Danjuma for his contributions to the state’s development, especially in health care, road infrastructure, and economic empowerment. He described Danjuma’s philanthropic efforts as a cornerstone of Taraba’s progress.
Meanwhile, Governor Alia of Benue disclosed that coordinated attacks in communities such as Ugondo (Logo LGA), Tyuluv, and Gbagir (Ukum LGA) between Thursday and Friday left dozens dead. While the police initially reported 17 deaths—five in Ukum and 12 in Logo—the governor clarified that more bodies had since been recovered.
“As of today, we have confirmed 27 deaths in Logo and 28 in Ukum, bringing the total to 56,” Alia stated. “Some families, under security protection, have already buried their loved ones. These figures may still rise.”
The governor condemned the ongoing violence, describing it as a full-scale war. “There is no room for anyone to sleep with both eyes closed. We know our enemies. This is the only state we have, and we must defend it,” he declared.
Alia appealed to the federal government for urgent assistance to help end the killings and displacement of innocent residents, and pledged that the state government would cover the medical and burial costs of victims.
