The Benue State House of Assembly has demanded the immediate release of 14 protesters arrested by the police on Sunday over the recent killings in Yelewata.
The protesters were part of a peaceful demonstration in Makurdi, the state capital, where residents gathered with palm fronds, a traditional symbol of peace, to demand justice for the tragic loss of over 200 lives in recent attacks.
The assembly’s demand is backed by growing concerns over the state’s security situation and the handling of protests by the authorities.
According to reports, the police arrested the protesters despite their peaceful intentions, sparking widespread criticism over the government’s approach to freedom of expression and assembly.
The Benue State House of Assembly has also called for the protection of vulnerable communities in the state, highlighting the need for urgent action to address the escalating violence in the region.
This development comes amid ongoing tensions between farmers and herders in the region, with some communities accusing the herders of destroying their farmlands and crops.
The protests in Makurdi were sparked by the recent killings in Benue State, which have left communities shattered and prompted citizens to voice their frustration and demand action from both local and national authorities. The choice of palm fronds by the protesters symbolized peace and reconciliation, reflecting their hope for an end to the violence.
The government has faced criticism over its handling of security issues in the state, with some communities demanding greater protection from the authorities. The Benue State government has vowed to take decisive action to address security breaches and prevent further incidents.
Benue State, located in Nigeria’s Middle Belt, has long been a flashpoint for conflict, often attributed to disputes over land and resources between farmers and herders. Amnesty International has reported an alarming escalation of attacks, with over 2,600 deaths documented across 50 communities between January 2023 and February 2024.
