Protestors stage roadblock in Benue following spate of killings
Residents from Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State gathered Tuesday evening to block the Makurdi-Naka road in protest against recent killings.
Approximately 26 individuals across three communities fell victim to attacks by suspected herdsmen.
Henry Agba, the Chairman of the Local Government Area, informed reporters that the assault, which began on Saturday and persisted until Monday, resulted in the deaths of 26 individuals, including six members of the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards and Livestock Guards.
The protesting residents accused the state government of failing to enforce the Anti-Open Grazing Law.
In the interim, Deputy Governor Sam Ode declared on March 6, 2024, the complete implementation of the anti-open grazing law following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum given to armed herders and those openly grazing in the state to evacuate.
The demonstrators, brandishing various placards with diverse messages, urged both Federal and State Governments to safeguard the populace against armed herders.
Francis Ayagah, a former chairman of Gwer West local government, urged the federal government to prioritize the safety of his community members.
He stated, "The escalating insecurity in the region stems from Governor Hyacinth Alia's failure to enforce the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law of Benue State. This allows herders to roam freely with their cattle and arms, which they then use to attack the populace."
Titus Numzua, another protester from the Seghev/Yegev council ward where the attacks occurred, highlighted the influx of herdsmen as exacerbating the security challenges in many Gwer West communities.
He urged the federal government to guarantee the safety of the people and called on the governor to provide logistical support to security agencies, the Benue State Livestock Guards, and the Community Volunteer Guards. This, he suggested, would complement the efforts of conventional security forces and help restore peace to Gwer West.
Senator Dr. Titus Zam, representing Benue North West Senatorial District, expressed condolences to the victims and denounced the coordinated attacks on some of his constituents, resulting in numerous fatalities.
Similarly, Arc. Dr. Asema Achado, the representative of the Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency, condemned the brutal killings of his constituents. He urged the Benue State Government to enforce laws prohibiting open grazing and ensure that those responsible for the heinous acts face justice.
Leave A Comment