Over 100 cattle belonging to suspected armed Fulani herdsmen reportedly died mysteriously while crossing River Benue to Nasarawa State on Saturday, June 14, 2025.
According to eyewitness accounts, most of the cattle died when sand collapsed on them due to erosion, while others drowned while swimming across the river.
Mr. Olikita Ekani, who witnessed the incident while returning from his farm, reported seeing several dead cows floating on River Benue opposite Achepe village in Nasarawa State.
"I was coming from my farm on Saturday, and I saw several dead cows floating on the River Benue. I also saw hundreds of Fulani herdsmen rushing and crossing from Benue to Nasarawa side," Ekani stated.
Mass Exodus Raises Security Concerns
Ekani further revealed that fishermen assisting the herdsmen in crossing the river informed him that the herdsmen have been rushing back to Nasarawa State over the past week, which he described as "an indication of impending attacks ahead."
"Anytime they are rushing and crossing like this, just know that attacks are imminent. This is what has been happening here for the past one week," he added.
A fisherman, who spoke on condition of anonymity, confirmed that 64 cattle died on Saturday alone. "Most of the dead cattle were killed by heavy soil falling on them when they came close to the land, while some drowned while swimming. We have never witnessed this kind of mysterious death of cattle before," the fisherman said.
Identified Crossing Points
The fisherman identified several entry and crossing points used by the herdsmen, including Abugbe to Odenyi in Nasarawa State, Ocholonya to Akpekpo, Achukpa to Ijiwo, and Oleg'Ada'Gomowe to Achepe.
As of the time of this report, attempts to reach the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, for confirmation were unsuccessful.
This incident comes amid ongoing tensions in Benue State, where clashes between farmers and herders have resulted in numerous casualties over the years.
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