Amnesty International has criticised the Nigerian government following the killing of at least 10 people in Mbalom community, Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State, describing the attack as another sign of persistent security failures.
The incident occurred on Sunday, April 5, during Easter celebrations, when gunmen reportedly stormed the community, killing residents, injuring several others, and destroying property.
In a statement released on Monday, April 6, the organisation said, “Gunmen invaded the village on Sunday while Easter celebrations were ongoing, leaving dozens of people severely injured.”
It added that “apart from killing people, the gunmen also set many homes and shops on fire,” noting that the attack reflects a recurring pattern of violence in the state.
Amnesty International faulted the response of authorities, stating, “The Nigerian authorities have failed the people of Benue State again and again,” and added that “frequent attacks by gunmen have deprived thousands of people of their rights to life, physical integrity, liberty, freedom of movement and access to livelihoods.”
The group further revealed that more than 500,000 people have been displaced across Benue State, with many forced to live in camps lacking basic necessities such as water, sanitation, food, and healthcare.
Local officials also confirmed the attack.
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The Chairman of Gwer West Local Government Area, Timothy Adi, said, “The invasion and attacks happened yesterday between 5 pm and 6 pm. Nine corpses have so far been recovered, two yesterday and seven today.”
He described the assault as unprovoked and called for urgent federal intervention to curb the activities of armed groups.
The violence in Mbalom forms part of a broader wave of attacks that disrupted Easter celebrations across parts of northern Nigeria.
In Benue, multiple communities in Gwer East, including Mbalom, Mbatsada, and Agana, were reportedly targeted, leaving several residents dead and many displaced.
Similar incidents were recorded in other states.
In Kaduna State, gunmen attacked two churches in Ariko Village, killing five worshippers and abducting 31 others, who were later rescued by troops.
In Katsina State, a police officer was killed during bandit attacks in Musawa and Matazu areas.
Meanwhile, in Borno State, suspected Boko Haram fighters launched assaults on communities in Chibok and surrounding areas, burning homes and forcing residents to flee.