March 12, (THEWILL) – The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of two ringleaders involved in the youth protest in Naka, the headquarters of Gwer West Local Government Area. The protest, which took place on that fateful Tuesday, resulted in the destruction of the council secretariat and private properties.
A police source revealed that upon the arrival of Commissioner of Police Steve Yabanet, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Col. Alex Ashongu (Retd.), and other security agencies at the scene, THEWILL learned that suspected herders had attacked the area, resulting in the deaths of three youths.
“Consequently, the youths mobilised 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.”
The Police Public Relations Officer of Benue State Police Command, ACP Sewuese Anene, in a statement, said the increased presence of police teams assisted the division in putting the situation under control.
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 statement added, however, that the CP also condemned the destruction of property by the youth and assured victims of the mischief that justice will be served.
According to the PPRO, citizens have been advised to go about their lawful businesses as increased security presence in the area is meant to prevent further breakdown of law and order.
