Angry youths stormed the Wurukum food basket roundabout in Makurdi, Benue State, to protest the alleged killing of scores of residents by suspected herdsmen in Yelwata.
The protesters, who were later joined by social media influencer Martin Otse (VeryDarkMan), demanded action from President Bola Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia, citing their “deafening silence” on the matter.
The protesters, fueled by anger and frustration, demanded justice for the victims and called on the authorities to take concrete steps to address the insecurity in the state.
An attempt by Deputy Governor Sam Ode to address the protesters was met with resistance, with the youths insisting that Governor Alia should personally address them.
The protest escalated when armed policemen and soldiers attempted to stop the protesters, leading to the use of tear gas.
Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the attack and killing of innocent citizens at Yelwata, saying that nothing should warrant the taking of life.
The governor assured residents that more tactical teams had been deployed from the Federal Government and additional security deployments were being arranged for vulnerable areas.
Alia called on religious, traditional, and political leaders to sensitise and guide youths against unlawful gatherings or confrontations that may spiral out of control.
The protest highlights the ongoing insecurity in Benue State, where innocent people have been killed in recent attacks.
The government and security agencies must work together to address the root causes of the violence and ensure the safety and security of all citizens.
