The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 14 individuals following a violent protest that turned deadly in Makurdi, the state capital, on Sunday. What began as a peaceful demonstration quickly escalated into chaos, leaving one driver dead after being trapped inside a burning vehicle.
The protest, which was organized by a group of angry youths, kicked off around Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi. The crowd had gathered to express their frustration over the recent killings in parts of Benue State. However, things soon spiraled out of control when the demonstration was hijacked by violent elements.
According to a police statement issued by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Catherine Udeme Edet, law enforcement officers had tried to manage the protest without the use of force. “While the right to peaceful protest is respected and protected, it is important that such actions remain lawful and non-violent,” the statement noted.
Top government officials, including the Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, and the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barrister John Ode, arrived at the protest site in an attempt to restore calm. But the crowd reportedly became aggressive. “Unfortunately, the crowd refused to listen and the protest was hijacked by violent people who even attempted to attack the Deputy Governor,” the police said.
Security forces responded with non-lethal tactics like smoke and water sprays to disperse the mob and safely escort the deputy governor away. Police reported that there were no injuries during the evacuation.
The situation deteriorated further in Apir, a nearby community on the outskirts of Makurdi. A separate group of individuals, believed to be hoodlums, set up a roadblock, intercepted a moving truck, and set it ablaze. The driver, who has not yet been identified, was unable to escape and died inside the burning vehicle.
The police later announced that 14 people had been arrested in connection with the events. “The command has so far arrested 14 suspects in connection with these incidents. They will be prosecuted accordingly. Investigations are ongoing to arrest other suspects and those who planned the attack,” the statement noted.
