On Saturday, March 1, 2025, around 7 p.m., suspected armed herdsmen attacked Tse Ugema Chul, Mbakesa community, Ugbaam, in Ukum Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State, resulting in the deaths of at least six individuals.

Eyewitnesses reported that the assailants stormed the village, shooting sporadically and looting properties. In response, community youths mobilized to defend their homes using sticks and stones. However, they unknowingly walked into an ambush near a stream called Kafe, where another group of armed attackers overpowered them. The attackers then retreated, looted farm produce, and set properties ablaze.

One of the victims was identified as Michael Adeke, who had posted on Facebook just days before the attack, warning about the recurrent herdsmen assaults in the area and calling on residents to defend themselves.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Ukum LGA, Mr. Jonathan Modi, expressed his grief, stating, "I am in pain about what happened and cannot speak now." Efforts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Catherine Anene, for comment were unsuccessful.

This tragic event adds to the series of attacks in Benue State, highlighting the ongoing security challenges faced by communities in the region.