The attack took place in Warrap state. Authorities said it was part of a cycle of violence in which different groups of herders attack one another, steal livestock and seek revenge.
In addition to at least 72 deaths, up to 40 people were injured, the state's information minister, William Wol Mayom Bol, told EFE. He accused militia groups opposed to the country's armed opposition of helping coordinate the attacks.
Conflict-torn South Sudan is scheduled to hold elections in December. They would be the first since the country gained independence in 2011, but have been postponed several times in the past.
