Panic has taken over the Dyom settlement in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State after reports emerged that armed herders and bandits have seized control of farmlands and residential areas in the community.
Residents say the assailants have turned parts of Dyom into their operational base, retreating into the bush and surrounding farms whenever security personnel or members of the Benue State vigilante group, Anyam Nyor, approach.
A resident, Terhile Uma, who spoke to journalists by phone, described the situation as “a living nightmare,” saying the invaders have made life unbearable for villagers.
“Our house is close to Dyom settlement, and each time soldiers or the Anyam Nyor security outfit arrive, these people disappear into nearby farms,” Uma said.
“They’ve occupied our homes, roam around freely with their boys, and we can’t farm, eat, or even sleep in peace. It’s pure wickedness.”
He added that fear of reprisal attacks has forced many residents to remain silent, while several families have fled the area entirely to avoid being caught in possible crossfire.
Community members say the armed group now operates with the kind of influence once associated with the late militia leader, Terwase Agwaza, popularly known as Gana.
The criminals are said to be collecting illegal taxes on market days and issuing threats to anyone who resists their authority.
“The entire community is living under siege,” another local source revealed.
“They extort money from traders, control movements, and threaten those who refuse to comply. Farming and business activities have collapsed completely.”
The worsening insecurity has deepened hunger in the area as most farmlands have been abandoned. Families who depend on daily market trade say they are struggling to survive as fear and displacement continue to spread.
When contacted, the spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, DSP Catherine Udeme Edet, said she had yet to receive an official report on the incident but assured that the matter would be investigated.
“The Command will verify the situation and take necessary action once we have a formal report,” she stated.
Residents, however, are calling on the Benue State Government and security agencies to intervene urgently before the situation escalates further.