By Benue Protests against Mass Killings
Police fire tear gas at protesters
Summary
- Over 100 people killed in recent attacks across Yelewata, Daudu, Mtswenem, and Akondotyough Bawa
- Police disperse peaceful #StopBenueKillings demonstrators in Makurdi using tear gas
- Governor Alia and Amnesty International condemn the violence, urge urgent security measures
Makurdi, Benue State – Police in Makurdi fired tear gas to disperse a peaceful protest at Wurukum roundabout, where hundreds of demonstrators gathered to demand immediate government intervention following a wave of deadly attacks in Benue communities.
The #StopBenueKillings protest was triggered by a series of coordinated assaults that left over 100 people dead. On Friday night alone, Yelewata and Daudu in Guma Local Government Area were attacked, while earlier in the week, 25 people were killed in Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa, both in Makurdi.
Protesters, mostly youths dressed in black and carrying fresh leaves as symbols of mourning, demanded justice and decisive action to halt the cycle of violence, often attributed to ongoing clashes between Fulani herders and local farming communities.
Addressing the crowd, Benue State Commissioner of Police, Emenari Ifeanyi, said: “We have already cut the head of the snake and we will get the peace that we deserve.” But moments later, police fired tear gas into the crowd, sending protesters scrambling as thick smoke filled the air.
Footage shared on social media captured chaotic scenes, a helicopter hovered overhead while police trucks lined the streets. Though unverified, some reports alleged gunfire during the dispersal.
The protesters in the streets of Makurdi
The police response sparked widespread criticism. “The energy used to tear-gas us should be used to protect our communities,” said one protester. Online reactions echoed this frustration, accusing authorities of cracking down on peaceful demonstrators while failing to protect lives in rural areas.
The Zone ‘A’ People’s Assembly called for a state of emergency in Benue, citing the scale and frequency of the violence. Amnesty International also condemned the killings, describing them as “horrifying,” and called on the government to implement stronger and more effective security strategies.
Governor Hyacinth Alia denounced the attacks and pledged to work closely with federal agencies to restore peace. However, conflicting casualty reports, with some estimates as high as 200, and the aggressive response to protests have deepened public anger and mistrust.
Many residents fear more unrest unless urgent and transparent action is taken even as the security crisis escalates and the state’s handling of both violence and civil dissent comes under scrutiny.
