Violent Protests Erupt in Benue
In response to the violent protests that erupted on Wednesday along Ayati-Sai Road in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, the state government has imposed a curfew. The unrest was sparked by the killing of 11 residents by bandits the previous night. Earlier in the week, three individuals from the Agagbe Internally Displaced Persons camp were also killed by suspected armed herders.
Youths Target Government Buildings
In response to the killings, angry youths stormed the council secretariat in Zaki Biam, the Ukum LGA headquarters, destroying valuables and setting the building on fire. They also torched the office of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The INEC National Commissioner, Sam Olumekun, confirmed the extensive damage, noting the destruction of furniture, generators, ballot boxes, and voting cubicles.
Government Imposes Curfew
Reacting to the escalating violence, Governor Hyacinth Alia declared a dusk-to-dawn curfew in Ukum LGA. Deputy Governor Sam Ode, speaking at a press briefing in Makurdi, announced the immediate curfew to restore order and protect lives and property. The initial curfew will last 24 hours, followed by nightly curfews from 6 pm to 6 am until further notice.
Eyewitness Accounts
A resident of Ayati village, who requested anonymity, said the protest was ignited by the killing of 11 people by bandits. The area has been a hotspot for criminal activities, with frequent killings and kidnappings by local militiamen. “We experience daily killings and kidnappings, and the government has shown little seriousness in addressing these issues,” the resident lamented.
Authorities Respond to the Crisis
Ukum LGA Chairman Victor Iorzaa declined to comment on the situation, while the police spokesperson confirmed the protest but had no details on its cause. The Governor’s Special Adviser on Internal Security, Joseph Har, attributed the violence to bandits. He assured that the government would continue to combat these criminal elements and urged residents to remain patient.
Ongoing Violence and Government’s Commitment
The killing of three farmers from the Agagbe IDP camp on Monday further fueled the unrest. Former camp manager Terna Jacob recounted that the victims were ambushed by suspected herders while returning from their farms. The state police have yet to release an official report on the incident. The government remains committed to addressing the security challenges and restoring peace in the affected areas.
Follow us on Socials: