At least three people have been reportedly killed following a deadly clash between suspected rival cult groups at the Agwan Jukun suburb of Makurdi in Benue State.
Attack Details
Residents said the incident, which occurred between Sunday night and the early hours of Monday, May 4, 2026, has caused panic in the affected vicinity. The violence erupted around 8pm on Sunday, forcing residents to flee their homes, while businesses shut abruptly as panic spread across the community.
Coordinated Operation
Witnesses who declined to give their names explained that the rival groups carried out a coordinated operation, targeting specific individuals. A resident, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the assailants moved with precision. "They came into the area around 8pm and went straight for their targets. It was clear they knew who they were looking for," the witness told Daily Trust.
The killings reportedly occurred along Market Street and Wukari Street. Witnesses to the cult rivalry alleged that the actors were likely aided by insiders familiar with the movements of their targets. "The way they operated showed they were not random attackers. It appeared they came from outside but had information from within the community," another resident added.
Aftermath
The residents further said that tension remained high on Monday, particularly around the market area near a mosque, as fear of further violence lingered. "People are still afraid. Many have fled, and businesses remain closed," a resident said. Some residents said on Tuesday that there are still indications of a possible reprisal, with some youths reportedly seen brandishing weapons earlier in the morning.
