Tensions Run High as Youths Protest Incessant Killings in Benue’s Ukum LGA

Residents of Ukum Local Government Area (LGA) in Benue State, Nigeria, were thrown into chaos on Wednesday as youths in their teens took to the streets to protest the unending killings in the area. The protest, which saw the youths blocking the Ayati-Sai road and vandalizing the council secretariat in Zaki Biam, was sparked by the killing of 11 people by bandits on Tuesday night.

The protesters were fueled by frustration over the lack of attention from the state government to address the recurring violence in the area. The community has been plagued by banditry and kidnappings, and many residents feel that the government has not done enough to protect them.

According to eyewitnesses, the bandits had been terrorizing the community for some time, and the killing of 11 people on Tuesday night was the final straw. The protesters were determined to make their voices heard and demand action from the authorities.

The Chairman of Ukum LGA, Victor Iorzaa, could not confirm the incident when contacted, citing that he was not in a position to speak on it. However, the state government confirmed that there was a protest in Ukum LGA, but did not provide details on the cause.

The Special Adviser to benue state Governor on Internal Security, Joseph Har, attributed the killings to bandits and urged patience from the protesting youths. According to sources close to Har, the bandits are acting out of desperation following their recent dislodgement from their camps in Katsina-Ala. Har assured that the government will continue to apply pressure on them until they are completely degraded.

Despite the chaos caused by the protest, officials have assured that steps are being taken to address the security concerns in Ukum LGA. With tensions running high in the area, residents are hoping that swift action will be taken to restore peace and security to their communities.