Eko Hot Blog reports that Residents of Gwer West Local Government Area in Benue State gathered on Tuesday evening, blocking the Makurdi-Naka road to protest the recent killings.
Suspected herdsmen are believed to have killed approximately 26 individuals across three communities in the council area.
Henry Agba, the Chairman of Gwer West Local Government Area, stated that the attack, spanning from Saturday to Monday, resulted in the loss of 26 lives, including six members of the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards and Livestock Guards.
Protesters, blaming the state government for not enforcing the Anti-Open Grazing Law, took to the streets to voice their grievances.
Protesters demonstrating against the killings
Meanwhile, Deputy Governor Sam Ode declared, on March 6, the complete enforcement of the anti-open grazing law following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to armed herders and those openly grazing in the state to evacuate.
The protesters who carried several placards with different inscriptions, called on the Federal and State Governments to protect the people against armed herders.
A protester said, “The renewed insecurity in the area was a result of the failure of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration to enforce the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law of Benue State, which allows herders to move freely with their cows and arms, which are used to attack the people.”
Also speaking, Titus Numzua, a protester from Seghev/Yegev council ward, where the three attacks occurred, revealed that the increasing presence of herdsmen has worsened the security situation in many communities within Gwer West.
Map showing LGAs in Benue State
He urged the federal government to guarantee the safety of the populace and implored the governor to furnish logistical assistance to security agencies, the Benue State Livestock Guards, and the Community Volunteer Guards.
This, he believes, will supplement the efforts of conventional security forces in restoring peace to Gwer West.
Senator Titus Zam, representing Benue North West Senatorial District, expressed sympathy for the victims and denounced the coordinated attacks on some of his constituents, resulting in numerous casualties.
Additionally, Arc. Dr. Asema Achado, the representative of Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency, condemned the brutal killings of his constituents. He urged the Benue State Government to enforce laws prohibiting open grazing and ensure that those responsible for the heinous acts are held accountable.
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