14 Arrested in Connection with Violent Protest in Makurdi, Benue State

The Nigeria Police Force has confirmed the arrest of 14 individuals linked to a protest that occurred on Sunday in Makurdi, the capital city of Benue State.

Authorities explained that the demonstration, which initially started at the Wurukum Roundabout, was aimed at raising concerns over the increasing rate of insecurity across the state. However, the protest was reportedly taken over by miscreants who attempted to cause unrest and disrupt public order.

According to the Benue State Police Command, tensions escalated when the protesters refused to listen to an appeal from the Deputy Governor, Barr. John Ode, and the Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, who had arrived at the location to address the crowd and plead for calm.

A press release from DSP Udeme Edet, the spokesperson of the Command, revealed that officers were compelled to use non-lethal methods to manage the chaos. These included water cannons and smoke dispersal units, which helped neutralize the aggressive faction of the protest while ensuring the safe evacuation of the Deputy Governor.

“No injuries or fatalities were reported throughout the police intervention,” the official statement confirmed.

Later the same day, a separate act of violence was reported at Apir, a community on the outskirts of Makurdi. Alleged supporters of the earlier protest reportedly blocked a major road, intercepted a truck, and set it ablaze while the driver was still inside.

The identity of the truck driver has not been established at the time of this report.

Police confirmed that a total of 14 individuals were apprehended in relation to these violent episodes and will be formally charged. Investigations are still ongoing to identify additional perpetrators involved in the arson and disruption.

The statement concluded with a firm position from the police:

“The Benue State Police Command acknowledges the right to peaceful protest but will not condone any act of violence, property damage, or threat to public safety.”