Irate youths in Oturkpo Local Council yesterday took to the streets in protest of the escalating level of violence and killings in Benue State.The protest, which drew a large crowd, followed a series of deadly attacks in the area.
They lamented that the violence has forced many to flee their homes while those who remain live in constant fear. The protesting youths demanded the removal of the police Area Commander for alleged inability to address the security challenges in the area.
The recent loss of two lives and the abduction of others in the past two nights sparked the protests. The Local Council, which is the headquarters of the Benue South senatorial district, has been experiencing escalating violence.
In recent weeks, there has been a heightened level of attacks on communities and killing of farmers by suspected herdsmen. The youths said they are holding the Area Commander responsible for not doing enough to prevent these incidents.
One of the protesters, who identified himself as Daniel Oche, lamented the frequent attacks, describing them as a “constant recurrence.” He also made a shocking revelation, alleging that electricity is always cut off in the community before each attack.
“This has been happening again and again. We are not safe in our own homes. And have you noticed? Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC) always takes light before every operation. It’s like they don’t want us to see what’s coming,” he said.
The Otukpo Council chairman, Maxwell Ogiri, told The Guardian that the protests were because of the heightened state of insecurity in the area. He disclosed that “the Benue State deputy governor, Sam Ode, came in the morning and they all held a closed door meeting at the Och’Idoma’s palace.”
The council boss said that the discussions were aimed at curtailing the killings and assured of a swift response to the malaise. According to him, the government will work closely with the youth, traditional leaders, and security agencies to find a lasting solution to the security issues in Otukpo.
