At least 107 bodies have been recovered following a brutal early morning attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Yelewata community in Benue State on Saturday.

The assault occurred in the early hours of Saturday when gunmen stormed the quiet settlement, killing scores of residents and injuring many others. Local sources confirmed that by Saturday afternoon, over 100 bodies had been retrieved from the community.

Among the dead were women, children, the elderly, and some security personnel. Some victims were burnt beyond recognition, as eyewitnesses described scenes of horror throughout the community.

Eyewitness Accounts

A local resident, Gberindyer Vanen, wrote in distress: "I just drove past Yelewata now. Human beings are still burning inside their homes. You can perceive the smell of roasted human flesh."

Another resident, Elder Zege Orkwande, shared a grim update on social media: "So far, 107 bodies found while the search is still in progress. Pray for Yelewata, pray for Benue State. Our leaders' failures in insecurity is obvious."

Many residents could be seen combing through the debris in search of missing loved ones as the community grapples with the scale of the tragedy.

Official Response

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the incident in a statement but did not disclose the official death toll. As of the time of this report, the Benue State Government has yet to issue any statement regarding the attack.

In response to the tragedy, House of Representatives hopeful for Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, Engr Thaddeus Orkpe, expressed deep sorrow and solidarity with the affected families.

"I am deeply saddened by the senseless and brutal attack that claimed the lives of innocent citizens in Yelewata. My thoughts and prayers are with the grieving families and the entire community during this time of immense sorrow," Orkpe said.

He added, "This act of violence is not only condemnable but a tragic reminder of the urgent need to strengthen security and ensure justice for all."

The attack, now being referred to as "Black Saturday" by locals, marks one of the deadliest incidents in Benue State in recent times.

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