At least 15 villagers were reportedly killed on Friday in Ojantele community, Apa Local Government Area of Benue State, after an attack by armed men believed to be terrorists.
Eyewitnesses said the victims were collecting fallen cashew nuts in nearby bushes following overnight rain when the gunmen struck.
Residents said most of the victims were women and youths from neighbouring communities, including Asaba and Akpete. They were gathering cashew nuts around Ogbaulu when the attackers suddenly opened fire.
The assailants reportedly killed at least 15 people and injured several others, Daily Trust reports.
Some villagers claimed the attackers arrived with a large herd of cattle and started shooting randomly, forcing people returning from farms to run for safety.
A witness, who spoke on condition of anonymity, told journalists in Makurdi by phone that at least 15 bodies had been recovered at the time of the report.
The source added that 11 others were injured at different levels and were taken to a hospital in Ugbokpo, the headquarters of Apa Local Government Area, for treatment.
Villagers also said some residents remain missing, including a woman who was reportedly abducted during the attack.
The chairman of Apa Local Government Area, Adams Ochega, confirmed the incident over a phone call but said he was yet to get full details as he was away on official duty. He asked for time to gather accurate information on what happened.
By the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, had not responded to calls or text messages seeking comment.
