By Omoniyi David
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects in connection with a violent incident that marred a youth-led protest in Makurdi on Sunday.
According to the police, the protest, which began peacefully, was hijacked by hoodlums who barricaded a road in Apir, a suburb of Makurdi, forcibly halted a truck, and set it ablaze with the driver trapped inside. The victim has yet to be identified.
This was disclosed in a statement released on Sunday by the Command’s Public Relations Officer, SP Catherine Udeme Edet, who assured that all those responsible for the violence would be brought to justice.
“The Benue State Police Command acknowledges a public demonstration that took place on Sunday, 15th June 2025, when a group of individuals gathered at Wurukum Roundabout, Makurdi, to express grievances over recent security incidents in the state,” the statement read in part.
“While the right to peaceful protest is constitutionally protected, it is imperative that such actions remain lawful and non-violent.”
The statement added that tactical police teams were swiftly deployed to maintain order.
The Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, alongside the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. John Ode, also visited the protest site in a bid to engage demonstrators and appeal for calm.
However, the situation deteriorated when the crowd refused to be addressed and became hostile.
The protest was subsequently hijacked by violent elements who attempted to attack the deputy governor.
“Officers intervened promptly, using non-lethal crowd control methods, including smoke and water cannons, to disperse the mob and safely evacuate the deputy governor.
“No casualties or injuries were recorded during the operation,” the statement said.
Tragically, a separate group of hoodlums believed to be sympathetic to the protest later blocked a roadway in Apir, where they intercepted and set a truck ablaze with its driver still inside.
The charred remains of the victim were recovered from the scene.
The police confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects in connection with the incident and pledged to prosecute them accordingly, while investigations continue to identify and apprehend additional perpetrators and instigators.
Reaffirming its commitment to law and order, the command condemned the violence in strong terms.
“We commend the responsible conduct of peaceful protesters and reiterate our unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security across the state,” the statement concluded.
