Benue Killings: 14 Protesters Detained Over Violence in Makurdi

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested 14 people following a protest that turned violent in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, on Sunday.

What started as a peaceful protest at the Wurukum Roundabout against the growing insecurity in the state reportedly took a dangerous turn when some hoodlums hijacked the demonstration.

According to the Benue State Police Command, these individuals attempted to disturb public order.

The situation worsened when protesters declined to listen to an appeal made by the Deputy Governor of the state, Barrister John Ode, and the Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari. Both had visited the protest site to speak with the crowd and encourage calm.

In a statement released by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, DSP Udeme Edet, police officers had to act quickly to stop things from getting out of control. They used non-lethal methods such as smoke and water cannons to break up the unrest and safely escort the Deputy Governor from the area.

Thankfully, no one was injured during the police operation.

Later that day, another group believed to be in support of the protest blocked a road in Apir, a community on the outskirts of Makurdi. Reports say they stopped a truck, set it on fire, and trapped the driver inside. Sadly, the driver’s identity has not yet been confirmed.

Police confirmed that 14 people have been taken into custody in connection with both the protest violence and the arson attack. The suspects are expected to be charged, and investigations are ongoing to find others involved.

“The Benue State Police Command supports peaceful protests but will not accept any form of violence, damage to property, or threats to the safety of the public,” the police stated.

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