By John Moses
Hundreds of young demonstrators filled the streets of Makurdi on Sunday, decrying the ongoing violence, killings, and mass displacement affecting communities across Benue State.
The protest followed a deadly assault on Yelwata in Guma Local Government Area, where scores of residents were reportedly killed late Friday night. Protesters gathered at Wurukum Roundabout, demanding urgent action from the Federal Government and security forces to halt what they described as a prolonged campaign of terror.
“Our communities are under siege, and no one is listening,” said Brahms Ikuan, one of the protesters. “We’ve made reports, shared intelligence on attackers, and pleaded for help—but nothing has been done. Benue is on the brink of disappearing.”
Participants accused authorities of silence in the face of what they described as systematic attacks, often attributed to armed herdsmen. Some warned of the collapse of the state if swift measures are not taken to curb the violence.
Another protester, Gideon Inyom, pointed fingers at government decisions that he claimed had enabled further incursions into Benue. “By relaxing the anti-open grazing law, the authorities have left our communities exposed. All we ask for is security—a fundamental right for every citizen,” he said.
Benue State Police Commissioner, Emenari Ifeanyi, who addressed journalists at the protest site, reassured the public that the Inspector General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, had assumed direct control of the security situation in the state. He said special forces had been deployed to key flashpoints.
“We understand the pain,” said Ifeanyi. “But we are already in motion. Tactical units are active, even in areas like Yelwata. We ask for your patience and support as these forces work to neutralise the threat.”
He added that the state governor, Hyacinth Alia, had provided full logistical support to assist the operation.
Despite the assurances, protesters rejected an attempt by Deputy Governor Dr Sam Ode to address the crowd. A military helicopter was spotted hovering above the rally point, underscoring the escalating tension in the state.
Activists continue to urge national and international attention to the deteriorating security situation in Benue, calling for justice for victims and safe return for displaced families.
