Rival Cult Eliminates Dreaded Benue Militia Leader

Ongoing rivalry among cult groups in Benue State, has resulted in the elimination of a militia leader popularly known as Joka Biam.

Report says the militia leader was shot dead on Monday morning by suspected rival gang members near the abattoir near NKST Central in Zaki-Biam town, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attackers who arrived in motorbike took him by surprise, carrying out their assignment successfully.

“They trailed him and shot him, after which they escaped on their motorbike.

“The incident immediately caused panic in the busy market town, as traders, commuters, and residents fled for safety,” a report in Vanguard referencing a source narrated.

The killing of militia leader is believed to be linked to the ongoing supremacy battles among militia groups operating in parts of the state.

Eyewitnesses said Biam was attacked at about 9 a.m. by armed men on a motorbike, who shot him at close range before fleeing.

The sound of gunfire reportedly disrupted commercial activities in the area for several hours.

Although the attackers remain unidentified, residents suspect the murder may have stemmed from longstanding rivalries and violent clashes between criminal gangs in Ukum, Logo, and Katsina-Ala LGAs.

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Some locals also alleged that Biam had recently attempted to abandon criminal activity before returning to his old lifestyle, which may have made him a target.

Community members expressed fear of possible reprisal attacks, with some residents already fleeing the town.

Confirming the incident, Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, said investigations had commenced.