What began as a peaceful protest in Makurdi, the Benue State capital on Sunday, June 15, ended in tragedy after a group of hoodlums allegedly hijacked the demonstration, blocked a major road, and set a truck ablaze, killing the driver trapped inside.
The Benue State Police Command confirmed that 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with the incident, which took place in Apir, a community on the outskirts of Makurdi. Authorities say efforts are ongoing to track down others involved.
In a statement released Sunday, the command’s spokesperson, SP Udeme Edet, said: “The Benue State Police Command acknowledges a public demonstration that took place on Sunday 15th June, 2025, when a number of individuals gathered at Wurukum Roundabout, Makurdi, to express grievances over recent security incidents in the State.
“While the right to peaceful protest is respected and protected, it is imperative that such expressions remain lawful and non-violent.”
According to Edet, the protest initially drew the attention of security agencies who deployed tactical teams to maintain order.
In a bid to defuse tensions, Commissioner of Police Ifeanyi Emenari and Deputy Governor John Ode visited the protest site to engage with the demonstrators.
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“Unfortunately, the crowd declined to be addressed, and the protest was soon hijacked by disruptive elements who attempted to attack the deputy governor,” the statement read.
Police responded with non-lethal measures, including smoke and water cannons, to disperse the crowd and safely evacuate the deputy governor. No injuries were reported from that operation.
However, events took a darker turn shortly afterward when another group of individuals, reportedly sympathetic to the protest, blocked the Apir road and stopped a truck before setting it on fire with the driver still inside.
“The command has so far arrested 14 suspects in connection with these incidents. They will be prosecuted accordingly. Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other culprits and instigators behind the violence,” Edet stated.
While condemning the attack, the police commended those protesters who remained peaceful.
“We commend the responsible conduct of peaceful protesters and assure the public of our unwavering commitment to maintaining peace and security across the State,” the statement concluded.