The Executive Secretary of the Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA), Dr. James Iorpuu, has confirmed that at least ten lives were lost and ten motorcycles snatched by suspected armed herdsmen at Jato-Aka in the Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State.l
Dr. Iorpuu, who is also a Permanent Secretary, made the disclosure on Thursday, February 12, 2026, during the monthly distribution of food and non-food items to fifteen Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and other centers with special needs across the state.
He explained that Governor Hyacinth Alia was deeply pained during a recent on-the-spot assessment visit to Anwase and other affected communities in Kwande.
According to Dr. Iorpuu, the governor has directed the release of funds to assist the victims’ families in burying their loved ones killed during the invasion.
He further noted that ten motorcycles would be provided to those whose bikes were snatched by the attackers.
The SEMA Secretary stated that many IDPs from Tatyough, Gbajumba, Hiinyam, and Agagbe have begun returning to their ancestral homes due to security measures implemented by the Alia administration.
He commended international partners, the federal government, and other critical stakeholders for supporting the state’s efforts to resolve security challenges and pave the way for development.
Items distributed during the exercise included red and groundnut oil, mattresses, salt, sugar, and bags of clothing, among other essentials.
