Protest, Sunday morning, erupted in Makurdi, the Benue state capital, following the recent killing of over 107 people in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue state.
The protesters, who were mainly youths, blocked the major roads at the Wurukum roundabout, connecting routes to Abuja, Gboko, Enugu, and Makurdi town, causing commuters to be stranded.
The protesters expressed their anger about the constant killings in the state and the government’s perceived inaction in addressing the security challenges.
The protesters carried placards some of which reads, “Enough of the killings in Benue State!”, “We are tired, broken, and helpless”, “The government isn’t helping us”, “The number of deaths is uncountable, and we don’t know where they will strike next”.
“Father Lord, touch the hearts of our leaders to intervene. “This is beyond tribe or political affiliation—no one is spared, not even the children who are the leaders of tomorrow. “Our voices must be heard through this peaceful protest.”
One of the protesting leaders who simply gave his name as Martin called for immediate intervention from the government to stop the killings and provide security for the people.
He also demanded that the government takes concrete steps to protect the lives of citizens, particularly in rural communities.
“The government is being silent about the killings. We are tired of seeing our fathers, mothers brothers and sisters killed everyday.
“The primary responsibility a government is to secure lives and property, and if it cannot do this then, what is the use of such government,” he questioned.
It could be noted during the protest, heavily armed security personnel were seen stationed at the Wurukum roundabout, with Armoured Personnel Carriers deployed to maintain peace.
The strong security presence, including armored vehicles, helicopters, soldiers, police, and paramilitary units, raised concerns among demonstrators, who questioned why such forces were not deployed against the perpetrators of the violence instead.
But while the protest was going on, tensions later escalated when security agents suddenly moved to disperse the protesters, firing tear gas and shooting into the air.
Though nobody was killed, many people sustained injuries while trying to escape the effect of the tear gas.
Adding a new dynamic to the protest, popular activist Verydarkblackman arrived in Makurdi shortly after police had fired tear gas, signaling his intention to lead the movement.
The protest in Makurdi is part of the growing frustration and anger among the people of Benue state over the constant killings and government inaction.
The recent relocation of the Chief of Army Staff to Benue also raised questions among the protesters about the effectiveness of the military’s presence in the state.
Barely after the relocation, a deadly attack occurred in Yelwata, leaving over a hundred people dead.
The protesters sang sorrowful songs questioned whether the recent relocation of the Army was aimed at guiding the attackers or ending the insecurity.
The protesters are concerned that the military’s presence in the state has not been effective in preventing attacks and protecting civilians and have called government to take concrete steps to address the security challenges in the state and restore trust with the people.
They also urged the government to implement effective security measures to prevent future attacks and protect civilians.