From Henry Ibya, Makurdi
Peaceful protest by youths in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State over the killing of three of their members by suspected herdsmen took a different dimension, causing massive destruction of property.
The Commissioner of Police, Hassan Yabanet, who confirmed the development in a statement, said on receiving information from Naka Police Division that some youths were protesting at Naka, headquarters of Gwer West Local Government Area, he swiftly moved to the area in company of other heads of security agencies and the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Colonel Alexander Ashongu (rtd), to assess the situation and take necessary actions.
Yabanet, in a statement signed by the Police Public Relations Officer, DSP Sewuese Anene, revealed that on reaching the scene, his team gathered that suspected herdsmen had attacked and killed three community members.
According to him, the youths consequently mobilised for protest, which eventually turned violent, leading to the destruction of the local government secretariat, Ter Nagi’s palace and property of other prominent citizens of the area.
He, however, disclosed that the increased presence of police teams assisted the division to put the situation under control, adding that two ring leaders of the youths were arrested and investigation is ongoing.
Yabanet commiserated with the family members and friends of the youths who lost their lives and promised to do everything possible within the law to bring the perpetrators of the criminal act to book.
He also condemned the destruction of property by youths and assured victims of the mischief that justice would be served.
He advised citizens of the local government to remain law abiding and go about their lawful businesses without fear, as increased security presence in the area is meant to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
