Benue Protest: Police arrest two for culpable homicide
By Ndukaku Ihe
Two protesters suspected to be ring leaders of Tuesday’s violent protests in Benue State have been arrested by the state’s Police Command. The Commissioner of Police in the state, CP. Steve Yabanet, in a statement disclosed the Command arrested the ring leaders in connection with the violent protest and destruction of properties in Naka, Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State.
In the statement signed by the Command’s Public Relations Officer (PPRO) CSP Catherine Anene and made available to newsmen in Makurdi on Wednesday, the Commissioner said they were being charged for culpable homicide over the destruction of property in Naka.
The statement clarified: “On 11/03/2025 at about 0900hrs, information was received from Naka Police Division that some youths were protesting at Naka, the headquarters of Gwer-west Local Government Area.
“In response to this information, the Commissioner of Police, Benue State command, CP. Steve Yabanet swiftly moved to the area in company of other heads of security agencies and Security Adviser to the Governor of Benue State, Col. Alexander Ashungyu (rtd) to assess the situation and take necessary actions.
“Upon arrival at the scene, it was gathered that some suspected herders had attacked and killed three youths in the area.
“Consequently, the youths mobilized themselves for a protest that eventually became violent and led to the destruction of the local government secretariat, Ter Nagi’s palace and properties of other prominent sons of Gwer-west.”
According to him, the increased presence of police teams assisted the division to put the situation under control while two ring leaders of the youth were arrested and investigation is on going.
While commiserating with family members and friends of the youths that lost their lives, the CP condemned the killing and promised to bring perpetrators to book.
The CP also condemned the destruction of property by the youth and assured victims of the mischief that justice will be served.
CP Yabanet advised citizens to go about their lawful businesses as increased security presence in the area is meant to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
