Inferno in Benue! Protesters set LG Secretariat, Palace ablaze over killings

By Emmanuel Antswen

Tension gripped Benue State on Tuesday as enraged protesters set ablaze the Gwer West Local Government Secretariat, the palace of Ter Nagi, and several other structures in a fiery demonstration against a wave of killings.

The Benue State Police Command confirmed the violent unrest in Naka, the Gwer West LG headquarters, where angry youths took to the streets following the murder of three people by unidentified assailants.

According to the Police Public Relations Officer, SP Sewuese Anene, the Commissioner of Police and tactical teams had been deployed to restore order in the volatile area.

What started as a peaceful protest quickly spiraled into chaos when hoodlums hijacked the demonstration.

The Chairman of Gwer West LGA, Mr. Victor Ormin, recounted the dramatic escalation, stating, “Three security guards were killed in Gyaruwa. When their bodies were brought to Naka, emotions boiled over, leading to an uncontrollable rampage.”

Among the worst-hit locations was the palace of Ter Nagi, Chief Daniel Abomtse, who was away for a medical check-up when the mob struck.

Speaking to reporters, he confirmed that his palace, along with valuables—including three vehicles and motorcycles—was reduced to ashes.

As security forces race to restore calm, the attack underscores the growing frustration over insecurity in the region, with residents demanding swift justice for the slain victims. (NAN)