Several persons are feared dead and many others injured following a deadly attack by suspected herdsmen on Agan community in Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

According to local sources, the attackers stormed the community around 6 pm on Thursday, shooting sporadically and setting houses ablaze. The violence forced residents to flee for their lives as the attack reportedly continued without immediate security intervention.

Agan community is located just a few minutes from Makurdi, raising concerns about the proximity of such violence to the state capital.

This attack comes amid ongoing tensions between herders and local communities in Benue State. Recently, traditional rulers in the state had extended a quit notice to Fulani herdsmen by 14 days, highlighting the deteriorating security situation in the region.

The incident adds to the growing list of violent clashes between herders and farming communities across the Middle Belt region of Nigeria, which have resulted in numerous casualties and displacement of residents over the years.

As of the time of this report, authorities have not released an official statement regarding the attack or casualty figures. The situation remains fluid as residents continue to seek safety away from the affected area.

BenriNews will provide updates as more information becomes available on this developing situation.