Suspected Fulani herdsmen have killed 15 Tiv farmers in an early morning raid on Igbogom community, Tsaav ward in Ukum local government area of Benue state.
It was learnt the masked gunmen numbering 40 stormed the community when villagers were fast asleep and set the houses on fire.
A community leader Thomas Amee said as people tried to escape in the confusion that ensured, they were shot down with AK 47 with their bodies mutilated with cutlasses and long knives.
He said before the attack on Igbogom community, the suspected herdsmen invaded other adjoining villages and killed three persons.
Apart from Igbogon, Amee said the suspected herdsmen also attacked Ankyov and Aondo villages with many homes destroyed.
Corpses recovered so far include those of Orahungwa 37; Taernyi Emberga and Orakuraga Ayange, 55.
Others were Iorpase Bembee 70; Africa Bembee and Mngushaan Africa among others.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, who is an indigene of the area, Comrade Boga Abuul, condemned the attack.
He called on the federal government to deploy security forces to the troubled area.
Comrade Abuul told The Nation that Ukum people have no problem with Fulani herdsmen and wondered why harmless farmers should be killed.
Another indigene affected by the incident, Jerry Iorgen, said the attackers have blocked the main road in Igbogom community and killed three more persons.
Iorgen said the entire community has been deserted with many taking refugee with other families in nearby houses for their safety.
Police Public Relations Officer Benue state Police Command Moses Yamu confirmed the attack.
He said investigations have begun into the incident.