Fulani Terrorists Slaughter 50 in Ayati
Benue State, Nigeria — On Thursday, August 8, 2024, while the world was captivated by the Paris Olympics, a horrific tragedy unfolded in the quiet village of Ayati, Benue State, Nigeria. The once-tranquil community, located 121 miles northeast of the state capital Makurdi, was devastated by a brutal attack that claimed the lives of 50 residents.
At around 4:30 PM, Akika Tsav, a local farmer, was preparing dinner when the sound of approaching motorcycles shattered the peace. Within moments, the air was filled with the deadly staccato of automatic rifles as about 30 gunmen, identified as Fulani terrorists, stormed the village, shooting indiscriminately at anyone in sight.
“I saw 15 gunmen firing at huts and people fleeing for their lives,” Tsav recounted. “I watched in horror as my family members were gunned down before my eyes. My mother, over 90 years old, died of shock.”
Bloodbath in the Church
The terrorists, seeking revenge after a confrontation with the military the previous day, also targeted St. Peter Catholic Church, where worshippers had gathered for Holy Mass. The attackers showed no mercy, killing 20 worshippers, including a 16-year-old altar server, Denen Korna.
“They knew about the ongoing Mass and deliberately attacked the church,” said local official Ayati Ahangba. “They opened fire on unsuspecting worshippers, leaving bodies lying in the sacred space.”
Village in Mourning
Ayati is no stranger to violence, having faced numerous attacks from Fulani Islamist gangs over the years. The recent massacre has plunged the community into mourning once again, with survivors struggling to come to terms with their losses.
“Our wells were filled with corpses, and our farms destroyed,” Tsav lamented. “The terrorists poisoned our ponds, ensuring that we have no clean water. We are staring at hunger and thirst.”
Will the World Listen?
Despite pleas for help, Ayati remains in dire need of assistance. The community fears a looming epidemic as decomposing bodies continue to contaminate the water supply.
“We are crying out for help,” Tsav said, his voice filled with despair. “Will anyone hear our pleas before it’s too late?”
The people of Ayati are left to pick up the pieces of their shattered lives, hoping that someone will finally take notice.
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