Benue Killings: 14 Arrested Over Violent Protest in Makurdi

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 14 individuals linked to the violent protest that erupted in Makurdi on Sunday, following public outrage over the recent mass killings in the state.

The demonstration, which began peacefully at Wurukum Roundabout, was originally organized to protest escalating insecurity in Benue. However, police say the protest was later hijacked by hoodlums who sought to disrupt public peace.

According to a statement by the command's spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, the situation worsened when the protesters refused to listen to Deputy Governor Barr. John Ode and Commissioner of Police CP Ifeanyi Emenari, who had arrived at the scene to appeal for calm.

Police deployed non-lethal crowd control tools, including smoke and water cannons, to disperse the unruly crowd and safely evacuate the Deputy Governor. Authorities confirmed that no injuries or fatalities occurred during the operation.

Truck Set Ablaze in Separate Incident

Later that same day, a different group believed to be sympathizers of the protest reportedly blocked a road in Apir, a suburb of Makurdi, and set a truck on fire, allegedly with the driver trapped inside. The driver’s identity has yet to be confirmed.

The police stated that 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the unrest and will be charged accordingly. Investigations are ongoing to track down others involved in the acts of arson and public disorder.

“While the Command supports lawful and peaceful protest, we will not condone violence, destruction of property, or threats to public safety,” the police emphasized.

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