Peaceful protesters demanding an end to ongoing killings in Benue State were met with a harsh security response involving armored vehicles, helicopters, and tear gas, sparking widespread condemnation from human rights activists and political groups.
Agena Robert Ande, Chairman of the African Action Congress (AAC) in the Federal Capital Territory, described the crackdown as “state-sponsored brutality” and criticized Governor Hyacinth Alia for ordering the violent dispersal instead of engaging with the demonstrators. “The deployment of such heavy security machinery against unarmed protesters is an outrageous display of thuggishness,” Ande said in a statement on Sunday.
The protesters had gathered peacefully in Makurdi to demand justice for victims of repeated attacks by armed herdsmen, which have led to significant loss of life in the state. Ande linked the violence to the government’s failure to address the root causes, particularly the activities of Fulani herdsmen accused of terrorizing communities. He also called on Governor Alia to publicly condemn the killings and collaborate with security agencies to protect citizens and hold perpetrators accountable.
Reports indicate some attackers originate from neighboring Nasarawa State, prompting calls for inter-state cooperation to prevent further assaults. Ande warned that the people of Benue are losing patience with the government’s inadequate response and vowed that they “will not be silenced” in their demand for justice.
Governor Alia condemned the recent attacks on Yelwata town in Guma Local Government Area, where over 100 people were reportedly killed, and announced deployment of federal tactical teams to restore security. However, his handling of the protests and the broader security crisis has drawn sharp criticism.
The incident highlights the escalating tensions in Benue State, where communities continue to suffer from violence amid calls for effective government intervention and protection of human rights.
