By Our Correspondent
National News – Human rights organisation, Amnesty International, has strongly condemned the deadly Easter Day attack in Mbalom community, located in Gwer East Local Government Area of Benue State, accusing Nigerian authorities of failing to protect residents.
The attack occurred on Sunday, April 5, 2026, during Easter celebrations, when armed gunmen reportedly stormed the village, killing at least 10 people, injuring dozens and destroying homes and shops.
According to the rights group, the attackers invaded the community while residents were observing the Easter holiday, opening fire on villagers and setting several properties ablaze.
Survivors said the violence left families searching for missing relatives as many residents fled their homes to escape further attacks.
In a statement released Monday, Amnesty International described the incident as another example of recurring insecurity in Benue communities.
The organisation said the repeated attacks by armed groups demonstrate a pattern of failure by the government and security agencies to adequately protect civilians.
Local officials confirmed the assault. The Chairman of Gwer West Local Government Area, Timothy Adi, said the attack took place between about 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. on Easter Sunday.
He disclosed that nine bodies had been recovered so far—two on the day of the attack and seven more the following day—while search efforts continue in nearby areas.
Adi described the assault as unprovoked and urged the Federal Government to take urgent steps to address the activities of armed groups operating in the region.
Amnesty International also highlighted the humanitarian impact of the continued violence in Benue State.
The group said more than 500,000 people have been displaced across the state due to repeated attacks on rural communities.
Many of those displaced now live in overcrowded camps where access to clean water, sanitation, food and healthcare remains limited.
The Benue incident was part of a broader wave of violence reported across northern Nigeria during the Easter period.
In Kaduna State, gunmen attacked two churches in Ariko village, killing five worshippers and abducting 31 others before security forces later rescued the victims.
In Katsina State, a police officer was killed during bandit attacks in Musawa and Matazu areas, while suspected Boko Haram fighters reportedly launched fresh attacks in Chibok communities of Borno State.
Human rights advocates say urgent security reforms are needed to prevent further killings and protect vulnerable communities across Nigeria.
