Panic has engulfed Dyom settlement in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State as armed herders and bandits have reportedly seized control of farmlands and residential areas in the community.
Sources disclosed that the herdsmen and bandits have established their base in the community and its environs, retreating into nearby farms whenever security operatives or members of the local vigilante group, Anyam Nyor, are sighted.
A resident, Terhile Uma, who spoke on the phone with journalists, described the situation as unbearable and dangerous, saying it is creating tension.
“Our house is close to Dyom settlement, and whenever the herders hear that soldiers or the Benue security outfit codenamed Anyam Nyor are around, they quickly leave our compound and hide in our farms. The suspected bandits and their boys are everywhere. We can’t eat, farm, or even move freely around our homes. What kind of wickedness is this?” he lamented.
He further revealed that fear of reprisal attacks has silenced most people in the community.
The invaders are said to be operating in the area in a manner similar to the late Terwase Agwaza, alias Gana, imposing taxes on market days and assuming authority.
Local sources say the ongoing violence by the herdsmen and bandits has crippled farming and commercial activities in the area, with food shortages and displacement on the rise.
When contacted, the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, said she was yet to receive the report