Makurdi: Police fired tear gas on Sunday to disperse a peaceful protest organized in response to deadly attacks that have killed more than 200 people in Benue State in recent days.
The protest took place at Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi, the state capital. It was organized under the trending hashtag #StopBenueKillings, a social media campaign demanding urgent government action against rising violence in the region.
The protesters, mainly youth dressed in black and holding green leaves, were calling for justice following recent massacres in the Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area. The attacks happened on Friday night and resulted in the deaths of over 100 residents.
These incidents occurred just two days after another wave of killings in Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa, two communities in Makurdi Local Government Area, where 25 people lost their lives.
The demonstration attracted a large crowd, drawing the attention of the Benue State Police Command.
Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, addressed the protesters at the scene, urging them to remain calm and cooperate with ongoing security operations. I was at the checkpoint for more than six hours. Tell your people to stay calm. We need the support of the youth to restore peace in Benue State, he said.
We’ve already dealt a heavy blow to the perpetrators. This is a difficult phase, but we’re working to end it. Staying too long here gives enemies room to plan. We’re monitoring them closely and taking action.
Despite the appeal, police officers fired tear gas canisters shortly after his speech. Protesters scattered in all directions, shielding their faces and coughing as smoke engulfed the area.
Videos on social media showed a police helicopter hovering overhead and several patrol vehicles stationed throughout the roundabout.
One protester captured on video said, If this kind of force was used to protect lives, we wouldn’t be protesting. Now we’re tear-gassed just for speaking out.
By Sunday afternoon, the Wurukum Roundabout had been cleared of demonstrators. However, a heavy security presence remained in the area.
The protest highlights growing frustration among Benue residents over the federal and state governments’ handling of security. Activists and community leaders continue to call for better protection and swift justice for the victims.
