3 killed, properties destroyed in Benue communal clash

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the deaths of three persons and the destruction of property following a communal clash that erupted in Taraku, Gwer East Local Government Area of the state.

According to reports, the violent incident occurred around 4:30 a.m. on Monday, shortly after the death of Jacob Kwaghgba, a 41-year-old member of the Benue State Civil Protection Guard.

Kwaghgba was reportedly attacked and stabbed to death by some locals while making inquiries in the Taraku area.

He was rushed to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, but later died while receiving treatment.

His death triggered a reprisal attack by his relatives, leading to the killing of an 80-year-old woman, Luna Aeer, who was burnt to death in her house, and one Fidelis Aondohemba, 25, who was shot dead.

Three houses and a rice mill were also set ablaze during the attack.

Nigerian army troops, police and the Benue State Civil Protection Guard, to the area to restore order.

According to the sources, normalcy has since been restored, while efforts are ongoing to arrest the perpetrators of the violence.