Suspects (14) Arrested After Violent Hijack of Peaceful Protest in Makurdi

14 Suspects- The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that 14 individuals have been arrested in connection with a violent incident that occurred during a youth protest in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State. What began as a peaceful demonstration turned tragic when a group of hoodlums hijacked the protest, leading to the destruction of property and the loss of at least one life.

According to a statement released on Sunday by the command’s spokesperson, SP Udeme Edet, the suspects were apprehended after they forcefully stopped a truck and set it on fire, trapping the unidentified driver inside.

The protest, initially organized to voice public concerns over recent security challenges in the state, quickly spiraled out of control. While demonstrators had gathered at the Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi to express their grievances, a separate group of individuals, described as “hoodlums” by the police, launched a violent attack in Apir, a suburb on the outskirts of Makurdi.

These individuals reportedly blocked a major roadway, stopped a truck in transit, and then set it ablaze. The driver, who has yet to be identified, was trapped inside the vehicle and is presumed dead.

Police investigations led to the arrest of 14 suspects believed to be directly involved in the hijacking of the protest and the subsequent act of arson. Authorities are continuing their efforts to identify and apprehend others who participated in or incited the violence.

Police Statement on the Arrested Suspects and Investigation

In her official statement, SP Udeme Edet reiterated the police command’s stance on lawful civic demonstrations and emphasized the distinction between peaceful protest and criminal behavior.

“While the right to peaceful protest is respected and protected, it is imperative that such expressions remain lawful and non-violent,” she said.

The statement also detailed the steps taken by the police and state government officials to manage the situation. Tactical teams were deployed shortly after intelligence was received about the protest, and both the Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, and the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. John Ode, visited the protest site in a show of leadership and an attempt to engage with demonstrators.

Unfortunately, the protesters declined to be addressed, and the situation soon deteriorated as aggressive elements among the crowd attempted to confront the Deputy Governor. Police intervened using non-lethal crowd control methods, including smoke and water cannons, to safely disperse the crowd and ensure the safety of government officials.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed that the 14 suspects arrested are only the beginning of a broader investigation. Authorities are working to identify all parties involved in orchestrating or carrying out the violence, especially those behind the Apir truck incident.

“Investigations are ongoing to apprehend other culprits and instigators behind the violence,” said SP Edet.

The command also emphasized its commitment to upholding law and order while allowing citizens the space to voice their concerns. It expressed appreciation for those who protested peacefully and reaffirmed its dedication to protecting public safety.

The police force condemned the criminal actions that marred the otherwise peaceful demonstration, calling the arson attack a “senseless act of violence” that undermines the rights of legitimate protesters.

Suspects- “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.

The incident has sparked concern among residents of Makurdi and the broader Benue community, many of whom are calling for stricter enforcement of law and order to prevent further acts of violence during civic events.

As news of the arrested suspects spread, there has been a growing public outcry demanding justice for the victim of the Apir incident. Civic organizations and community leaders are urging the government and security agencies to ensure thorough prosecution of all those responsible.

Human rights groups have also weighed in, stressing the importance of balancing the right to protest with the need to protect lives and property. They called for transparent investigations and swift judicial processes to deter future acts of lawlessness.

The Benue State Police Command’s arrest of 14 suspects marks a significant step toward accountability following the tragic turn of Sunday’s protest in Makurdi. As investigations continue and more individuals are sought, authorities are reaffirming their stance on upholding peace while supporting citizens’ right to lawful expression.

 Source- Punch