By Adenike Lawal
Tension escalated in Benue State on Sunday as angry youths blocked the Abuja-Makurdi expressway to protest the continued killings in their communities, demanding immediate government intervention.
Dressed in black and carrying placards and palm fronds, the protesters shut down the busy highway, halting vehicular movement and leaving travelers stranded for hours.
They described the demonstration as a desperate plea for attention to the rising violence plaguing the state.
The protest followed a fresh attack in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, where suspected armed herders reportedly killed over 200 people within 24 hours.
The massacre, which has shocked residents, became a breaking point for the demonstrators.
Despite earlier warnings from the Benue State Government against unauthorized protests, citing concerns over escalating tensions, the youths said their action was driven by frustration over repeated attacks and lack of justice.
“We’re tired of watching our people slaughtered like animals while leaders issue statements without action,” a protester told NewsPro. “We are not leaving this road until we see a real response. Enough is enough.”
The demonstration reflects growing anger and helplessness among residents who say the federal government must take stronger action to end the violence in Benue and protect vulnerable communities.
