LIVE UPDATES
BENUE, Nigeria - The Benue State Police Command has reported the arrest of 14 individuals involved in the disruption of a peaceful protest by youths in Makurdi, the state capital, on Sunday.
According to the command, the suspects obstructed a road in Apir, a suburb of Makurdi, forcibly stopped a truck, and set it on fire with the unidentified driver trapped inside.
This information was provided in a statement by the command's spokesperson, Udeme Edet, which was shared with the media on Sunday.
She assured that the suspects would face prosecution, and investigations are ongoing to identify additional offenders and instigators behind the violence.
The statement noted, “The Benue State Police Command acknowledges a public demonstration that occurred on Sunday, June 15, 2025, where individuals gathered at Wurukum Roundabout, Makurdi, to voice their concerns regarding recent security issues in the state. While we respect the right to peaceful protest, it is crucial that these expressions are lawful and non-violent.”
“Upon receiving intelligence about the protest, tactical teams were promptly deployed to monitor and maintain order. The Commissioner of Police, Benue State Command, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, showcased proactive leadership by visiting the protest site with the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. John Ode, to engage with the demonstrators and call for calm.”
“Unfortunately, the crowd refused to listen, and the protest was quickly taken over by disruptive individuals who attempted to assault the deputy governor.
Police officers intervened swiftly, using non-lethal crowd control methods such as smoke and water cannons, to ensure the deputy governor's safety without any recorded casualties or injuries.”
“However, later, another group of troublemakers, reportedly supportive of the protest, blocked a road in Apir, where they forcibly halted a truck and set it ablaze with the unidentified driver still inside.
The command has since arrested 14 individuals related to these events, and they will be prosecuted accordingly, with ongoing investigations to identify others involved.”
While reaffirming its support for lawful civic participation, the command condemned any acts of violence, destruction, and lawlessness, stating, “We commend the responsible actions of peaceful protesters and assure the public of our strong commitment to ensuring peace and security throughout the state.”
