Despite eyewitness accounts and dozens of names compiled by residents, Gov. Alia claimed only 59 deaths—drawing backlash. “We lost over 300 people. If anyone tells you it’s 59, they’re lying…”
YELEWATA, BENUE STATE — In what survivors describe as the darkest chapter in the town’s history, over 300 people were massacred by suspected herdsmen in Yelewata between June 13 and 14, 2025.
The attackers struck at night, targeting schools, churches, and markets where families had taken refuge due to earlier threats.
“It was like a war,” said Elder Amos, a 57-year-old survivor. “My wife and children were not so lucky.”
Prominent victims include pharmacist Matthew Iormba, burnt alive the same night he returned home after his housemanship, and young Lucy Tsegba who lost her entire family. “My beloved mum and beautiful sisters… I can’t stop crying,” she mourned.
Despite eyewitness accounts and dozens of names compiled by residents, Governor Hyacinth Alia claimed only 59 deaths—drawing backlash. “We lost over 300 people. If anyone tells you it’s 59, they’re lying,” said youth leader Samson.
President Bola Tinubu’s spokesman, Bayo Onanuga, referred to the incident as “reprisal attacks,” further sparking outrage. “What war are we fighting?” asked Franc Utoo, who lost over 33 relatives.
As survivors bury the dead, many accuse authorities of failing to prevent the attack despite prior intelligence. Security was reportedly withdrawn days earlier, and reinforcements arrived late. Community protests in Makurdi were met with tear gas and arrests.
Now, with homes in ruins and bodies still unburied, Yelewata stands as a haunting symbol of unchecked violence and government neglect.
“Will Yelewata ever recover?” residents ask, as justice and healing remain painfully distant.