Angry youths protest killing of 3 persons, torch monarch’s palace 

Benue State went up in smoke on Tuesday as angry youths in Naka,  torched the palace of Ter Nagi, Chief Daniel Abomtse, and parts of the Gwer West Local Government Secretariat.

The youths were protesting the killing of three operatives of the Benue Civil Protection Guards at Garuwa community in the local government allegedly by suspected armed herders.

When the remains of the victims were brought to Naka in the early hours of Tuesday, the youths could not bottle their emotions and reacted violently, leading to the destruction witnessed at the monarch’s palace and the council secretariat.

Reacting to the crisis, the state governor, Hyacinth Alia, strongly condemned the burning of Gwer West Local Government Area Secretariat, and  Ter Tyoshin Palace by protesters in the state.

This is contained in a statement on Tuesday by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Tersoo kula in Makurdi.

He also condemned the vicious and ferocious attack and murder of three brave members of  the Civil Protection Guards at On-MbaAondo, Tsambe-Mbesev ward of Gwer-West Local Government Area of the state.

“We appreciate the deep rage and frustration that has led to the anxiety at Naka, the headquarters of Gwer-West, including the regrettable burning of the local government secretariat and  palace of Ter Nagi by protesters,” the governor said.

“While we empathise with the sentiments of our people, we advocate restraint and foresight in funneling this anger.
“Destruction of our own worths, simply serves to frustrate the intentions of our government, which is devoted to building up peace and security in the state.”

Alia called for security in the state.

“We request all security organs to intensify efforts in detecting and capturing perpetrators of this heinous atrocity. It is essential that these marauding bandits are forced to deal with the full wrath of the law,” he added.

“The security of our residents is paramount, and we will not rest until those culpable for this violence are held liable.

“We implore all residents  to stand vigilant and collaborate with security agencies in reporting unusual activities.

“In these trying moments, let us stand together against violence and endeavor for peace and justice in Benue.  Together, we can conquer these challenges and establish a healthier environment for all.” he stated.