The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects who allegedly hijacked a peaceful protest staged by some youths in Makurdi, the state capital, on Sunday, June 15, 2025.
According to a statement issued by the command’s spokesperson, SP Udeme Edet, the suspects were involved in a violent incident at Apir, a community on the outskirts of Makurdi, where they blocked a major road, intercepted a truck, and set it ablaze with the yet-to-be-identified driver reportedly trapped inside.
The protest, which initially began at Wurukum Roundabout, was organized by youths expressing concerns over recent security breaches in parts of the state. SP Edet emphasized that while the police respect the right of citizens to protest peacefully, the escalation into violence was unacceptable and would not be tolerated.
“Upon receiving intelligence regarding the protest, tactical teams were immediately deployed to monitor and maintain order,” the statement read.
“The Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, in a proactive move, visited the protest scene alongside the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. John Ode, to engage with the protesters and appeal for calm.”
However, the protesters reportedly declined to be addressed and the demonstration was soon hijacked by disruptive elements who attempted to attack the Deputy Governor.
Police officers were said to have intervened swiftly, using non-lethal crowd control methods such as smoke and water cannons to disperse the mob and safely evacuate the Deputy Governor. No injuries or casualties were recorded in the process.
Tragically, later that day, a separate group believed to be sympathetic to the protest allegedly launched an attack in Apir, where they forcefully halted a moving truck and set it on fire. The driver, who remains unidentified, was reportedly trapped in the vehicle.
“Fourteen suspects have so far been arrested in connection with these violent acts,” the police spokesperson disclosed. “They will be prosecuted accordingly. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other culprits and those who incited the violence.”
While condemning the criminal hijack of the protest, the police commended those who participated peacefully and reiterated their commitment to upholding citizens’ rights within the bounds of the law.
“The Command assures members of the public of its unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security across Benue State,” the statement concluded.
Source: punch
