The youths consequently mobilized themselves for protest that eventually became violent leading to the destruction of the local government secretariat
By Austin Angwe, Makurdi
A peaceful protest by youths in Gwer West Local Government Area in Benue State over the killing of three of their members by suspected herdsmen took a different dimension causing massive destruction of property.
Commissioner of Police in Benue State, Hassan Yabanet who confirmed the protest in a statement said on receiving information from the Naka Police Division that some youths were protesting at Naka the headquarters of Gwer West Local Government Area, he swiftly moved to the area in company of other heads of security agencies including the Special Adviser to the Governor of Benue State on Security, Col. Alexander Ashongu (rtd) to assess the situation and take necessary action.
CP Yabanet in the statement signed by the Commands Police Public Relations Officer, PPRO, DSP Sewuese Anene further revealed that on reaching the scene, his team gathered that some suspected herdsmen had attacked and killed three community members.
According to the CP, the youths consequently mobilized themselves for protest that eventually became violent leading to the destruction of the local government secretariat, Ter Nagi’s Palace and properties of other prominent sons of the area.
He however, stated that the increased presence of the police teams assisted the division to put the situation under control, disclosing that two ring leaders of the youth were arrested and investigation is on going.
CP Yabanet commiserated with family members and friends of the youths that lost their lives but condemned the killings and promised to do everything possible within the law to bring perpetrators of the criminal act to book.
He also condemned the destruction of property by the youths and assured victims of the mischief that justice would be served, and advised citizens of the local government area to remain law-abiding but go about their lawful businesses without fear as increased security presence in the area is meant to prevent further breakdown of law and order.