Indigenous people and residents of Gwer West Local Government Area in Benue State took to the streets on Wednesday, blocking the Makurdi-Naka road to voice their outrage over the recent spate of killings by armed herdsmen.
The protesters, aggrieved by what they perceive as the state government’s failure to enforce the Anti-Open Grazing Law, demanded swift action to protect lives and property.
The tragic incident, which claimed the lives of 26 individuals across three communities, including six members of the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards and Livestock Guards, has plunged the region into mourning and heightened tensions.
Deputy Governor Sam Ode had previously announced the full enforcement of the anti-open grazing law, but the recent attacks underscore the urgent need for decisive action to address the escalating insecurity.
Protesters brandishing placards bearing various messages appealed to both the Federal and State Governments to prioritize the safety of citizens and curb the menace of armed herders.
Former Gwer West local government chairman, Francis Ayagah, lamented the failure of governance in ensuring the enforcement of existing laws aimed at safeguarding communities from such atrocities.
Titus Numzua, representing one of the wards directly affected by the attacks, highlighted the complexity of the security situation exacerbated by the influx of herdsmen into the region.
Calls for government intervention were echoed by Senator Titus Zam and Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency representative, Dr. Asema Achado, who condemned the senseless violence and urged swift justice for the victims.
As the community mourns its losses and demands accountability, the spotlight remains on authorities to take decisive steps to restore peace and protect the lives of citizens in the region.