JUST-IN: Protesters Set Palace, LG Secretariat Ablaze in Benue
Angry protesters in Naka, the headquarters of Gwer-West Local Government Area of Benue State, set the palace of the Ter Nagi, Chief Daniel Abomtse, and the local government secretariat on fire on Tuesday.
The unrest followed protests over the alleged invasion and killing of three members of the State Civil Protection Guards by armed men suspected to be marauding herdsmen in the area.
LEADERSHIP gathered that violence erupted after suspected armed herders reportedly killed three operatives of the Benue Civil Protection Guards in Gyaruwa community within the local government, triggering widespread protests.
An eyewitness, who requested anonymity, revealed that the bodies of the victims were brought to Naka in the early hours of Tuesday, sparking protests that quickly escalated into property destruction.
Both the Chairman of the local government, Victor Omirin, and the Ter Nagi, Chief Abomtse, confirmed the incident, with assurances that they would provide further updates once the situation is under control.
The Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) for the state, Catherine Anene, also confirmed the disturbance in a statement, stating, “Information has been received about an ongoing protest in Naka, and the Commissioner of Police has moved to the area this morning with other tactical teams to restore law and order.”
She added, “Further developments will be communicated to you, please.”
Details will follow.
