Gunmen attack popular bar in Benue, kill 7

Makurdi, the Benue State capital, was thrown into mourning on Wednesday night, March 27, 2025, after unknown gunmen attacked a local bar, leaving at least seven people dead.

According to reports, the attackers stormed the bar located near the OxNet Water factory in the Akpehe area of Wurukum and opened fire on a group of patrons. The shooting occurred between 7 and 8 p.m., causing panic and chaos in the area.

An eyewitness, who was riding in a commercial tricycle (popularly known as Keke), described the horrifying moment when the gunmen struck, leaving several people critically wounded and many others fleeing for safety.

Security agencies have since cordoned off the scene, and an investigation is underway to track down the perpetrators.

He explained, “As we got close to OxNet Water factory, we suddenly heard gunshots nearby, just close to our Keke.

Everyone began running in different directions, and we begged the driver to speed off.

While leaving the scene, the driver pointed at one of the people running ahead, shouting ‘See blood at his back!’

The man, dressed in red boxer shorts and a white T-shirt, was bleeding and kept running as we moved away towards Tyohon and International Market.”

The witness also claimed the Keke driver suspected it might be linked to cult violence or political rivalry among youths in the area, particularly within APC youth groups.

He recalled that a youth, reportedly close to a senatorial aspirant named Hwande, had been shot and killed earlier in Makurdi.

That victim was said to be the chairman of the Wurukum Market task force and was allegedly being considered for the position of APC Zone B youth leader.

Rumours are said to be circulating that more killings could follow before and after the burial of the slain youth, as tensions remain high in Wurukum and surrounding areas.

As of the time of filing this report, police is yet to issue an official statement on the incident.