The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Benue State has condemned the alleged suppression of peaceful protesters by Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration following fresh killings in the state. In a statement, APC’s State Publicity Secretary, Daniel Ihomun, expressed outrage over reports that protesters were shot at and dispersed on the orders of the state government.
Ihomun described the incident as “a new low in the governance” of Benue State, lamenting that the government elected to protect its people had allegedly turned its guns on them.
The APC accused the Alia-led government of “deliberate inaction” and “glaring disinterest” in addressing the ongoing violence in Benue communities.
The party also criticized the governor’s alleged dismissive stance on the crisis, citing previous comments where he referred to the killings as “mere skirmishes”.
The APC demanded the immediate release of all arrested protesters, an independent investigation into the alleged shootings, and justice for the victims.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar condemned the killings, urging state and federal authorities to act swiftly. “This is not just a local tragedy; it is a national emergency,” Atiku stated. Angry youths protested in Makurdi, demanding justice and calling out the lack of response from President Bola Tinubu and Governor Alia.
The protesters rejected the Deputy Governor’s attempt to address them, insisting that only Governor Alia himself could address their concerns.
