Some protesters caused a stir during the weekend in Afia Community, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, when they barricaded and blocked the convoy of Governor Hyacinth Alia.
The governor was in the area to visit victims of attacks by armed herdsmen.
The incident occurred around 3:30 p.m., while Governor Alia, accompanied by Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Steve Hassan Yabanet, and other security personnel, was assessing the security situation and distributing relief materials to affected residents.
According to reports, the protesters, suspected to be backed by a local politician, blocked the road near the venue of a town hall meeting, standing as human shields and chanting in defiance of the governor’s visit.
Security forces quickly responded, using minimal force to disperse the crowd and clear the road.
While the windscreen of the police commissioner’s vehicle was damaged, no injuries or deaths were reported.
Before heading to Ukum, the governor’s convoy had visited victims in Logo Local Government Area.
Authorities have since launched an investigation to identify the organizers of the protest, and the situation in the area is now calm.
Benue Under Siege – Governor
Benue State governor, Reverend Father Hyacinth Alia has declared that the state is under attack by armed herders who continue to terrorize communities, kill residents, and destroy properties.
The latest wave of violence has raised alarm, with over 70 people confirmed dead following coordinated attacks during the Easter weekend in Ukum and Logo Local Government Areas.
The attackers, reportedly riding on motorbikes, stormed villages in the two areas, killing many people, injuring others, and burning down houses.
This incident followed earlier attacks in Otukpo Local Government Area, where communities such as Ikobi, Asa 2, Otobi-Akpa, Emichi, Okpomaju, and Odudaje were invaded, resulting in about 30 deaths and several injuries.
The herders also left a trail of destruction, setting properties ablaze and displacing many residents.
In Kwande Local Government Area, the situation remains tense as daily attacks have continued.
Residents said the invaders often arrive unchallenged, kill people, and seize control of communities.
The killings have caused fear and unrest, with more residents fleeing their homes.
Governor Alia said fresh bodies were discovered recently in Katsina-Ala, showing that the violence is spreading.
He described the ongoing situation as a crisis that needs urgent attention from the Federal Government.
According to him, the attackers appear to be organized and may be targeting the communities to take over their land.
He pledged to do everything possible to restore peace, especially in the five areas hit hardest by the crisis.
He also encouraged residents to remain vigilant and share information with security agents that could help prevent more attacks.
insha’Allah