By Huldah Shado
No fewer than eight persons have been killed following a wave of rival cult clashes across several communities in Benue State.
The Benue State Police Command had earlier confirmed two deaths from a clash between rival cult groups in Jato Aka, Kwande Local Government Area.
However, findings indicate that the violence has since spread to Otukpo, Makurdi and Gboko LGAs, pushing the death toll to eight.
Investigations revealed that one person was killed in Otukpo earlier in the week, while two others died in a related clash in Gboko about a week ago.
In Makurdi, three persons were shot dead during coordinated attacks around the Wurukum area on Wednesday night.
An eyewitness said the attacks occurred around midnight, with the assailants fleeing immediately after the shootings, leaving residents in fear.
The Chairman of Makurdi Local Government Area, Mr Joseph Keffi, confirmed the killings and condemned the violence, describing it as senseless.
He extended condolences to the affected families and assured residents that the council was working with security agencies to restore peace.
Keffi urged residents to remain calm and vigilant, and to promptly report suspicious activities to security operatives.
