A renewed communal conflict between the Mbazarem community in Vandeikya Local Government Area (Benue State) and the Abonkip community in Obudu Local Government Area (Cross River State) has claimed another life, with a commercial driver stoned to death in Obudu Township. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

The victim, identified as Agage Iorkyaa Ternenge, was reportedly attacked by hoodlums on Friday, July 18, 2025, while delivering a waybill to Obudu. A viral video circulating on social media shows the harrowing moment a mob stoned him to death.

Benue Chairman Confirms Attack

The Chairman of Vandeikya LGA, Dennis Guda, confirmed the killing in a statement issued through his media aide, Gbaa Nguuma, on Sunday. He explained that the crisis erupted after sporadic gunfire allegedly initiated by Abonkip youths over a long-standing land dispute.

“On the morning of Friday, July 18, we received reports of gunfire from the Abonkip side of the disputed border. When I arrived with security operatives, I observed large-scale destruction of crops worth millions of naira on the Mbazarem side, reportedly a reprisal attack by Abonkip youths,” Guda said.

Guda further revealed that he narrowly escaped being hit by stray bullets during his peace mission.

Crisis Escalates to Obudu Township

The violence worsened on Saturday, July 19, as armed groups were seen parading the streets of Obudu, allegedly targeting Tiv residents of Benue origin. Many students of the Federal College of Education (Degree Program) and the School of Nursing, as well as traders, were forced to flee for safety.

In a coordinated rescue mission, Chairman Guda supervised the evacuation of Benue indigenes who had sought refuge at the Obudu Central Police Station. He also facilitated the safe return of Obudu indigenes living in volatile areas of Vandeikya to prevent retaliatory attacks.

Joint Security Intervention

A joint security meeting involving police and military officers from both states was held, urging both communities to embrace peace. However, hostilities reportedly resumed shortly after the meeting, with accusations of violating the “Bush Peace Accord.”

Police Confirm Death, Call for Calm

The Benue State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, confirmed the incident, adding that the chairmen of both local governments had met to address the crisis.

“Yes, I am aware that the chairmen of the two local government areas have met and resolved the crisis,” he said.

Meanwhile, Chairman Guda has urged residents to remain calm, assuring that discussions with his Obudu counterpart are ongoing to restore peace.