The Chairman of Gwer West Local Government Area in Benue State, Ormin Torsar Victor, has imposed a dusk-to-dawn curfew in response to escalating insecurity and recent deadly attacks in the region.

According to an official statement released on Sunday, the curfew takes immediate effect and restricts all movement into and out of the local government area after 6:30 PM daily.

"This directive takes immediate effect," Victor stated. "With this Executive directive, people coming into Gwer West LGA and those going out to other places are to do so within the stipulated time of 6:30 pm."

The chairman emphasized that the measure is temporary and will be reviewed based on improvements in the security situation.

Deadly Attacks Prompt Security Measures

The curfew comes in the aftermath of coordinated attacks by suspected herdsmen on Friday, May 9, 2025, which claimed at least nine lives in the neighboring communities of Ayilamo and Jato-Acka.

In Jato-Acka, over 20 armed attackers invaded the community, killing six residents and burning numerous homes. The violence subsequently spread to Ayilamo, where three more people, including a Livestock Guard, were reportedly murdered.

These incidents represent the latest in a series of security challenges facing Benue State, which has long struggled with farmer-herder conflicts and related violence.

Growing Security Concerns Across Benue

The security situation in Benue State has been deteriorating in recent weeks, with multiple communities experiencing violent attacks. Local authorities have been implementing various measures to address the growing insecurity.

Governor Alia has previously called for statewide unity amid these security challenges, emphasizing the need for collective action to restore peace and stability to affected areas.

As the situation develops, residents of Gwer West Local Government Area are advised to comply with the curfew directive and report suspicious activities to security agencies.