Protesters Set Benue Monarch’s Palace, LG Secretariat Ablaze Over Killings

 

Angry youths in Naka, Benue State, set fire to the palace of Ter Nagi, Chief Daniel Abomtse, and parts of the Gwer West Local Government Secretariat on Tuesday in protest against the killing of three operatives of the Benue Civil Protection Guards.

The violence erupted after suspected armed herders reportedly killed the security personnel in Garuwa, a community in Gwer West LGA. The bodies of the victims were brought to Naka in the early hours of the day, sparking outrage that quickly escalated into arson and destruction.

Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Gwer West LGA, Victor Omirin, stated that the protest, which began as a demonstration of anger, was later hijacked by hoodlums who went on a rampage.

“Yes, they burned down the secretariat and the Ter Nagi palace. The unrest started after the bodies of the slain officers were brought to Naka, and it has now escalated,” he said.

Attempts to reach the Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Catherine Anene, for comments were unsuccessful, as her phone was unreachable. Further updates on the situation are expected.