A demonstration took place on Tuesday evening in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State, with residents blocking the Makurdi-Naka road to protest recent killings in their community.
Approximately 26 individuals across three communities fell victim to attacks believed to be carried out by herdsmen.
According to Henry Agba, Chairman of the Local Government Area, the violent incidents started on Saturday and lasted until Monday, resulting in the tragic loss of 26 lives, including six members of the Benue State Community Volunteer Guards and Livestock Guards.
Those participating in the protest expressed frustration towards the state government for failing to enforce the Anti-Open Grazing Law.
In response, the Deputy Governor, Sam Ode, announced the full implementation of the anti-open grazing law on March 6, 2024, following the expiration of a 14-day ultimatum issued to armed herders and those openly grazing in the state.
The demonstrators, holding various placards with messages, urged both Federal and State Governments to safeguard the populace against armed herders.
A former chairman of Gwer West, Francis Ayagah, emphasized the need for the federal government to prioritize the safety of the people.
He pointed out, “The escalation in insecurity within the vicinity stems from Governor Hyacinth Alia’s failure to uphold the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law of Benue State, permitting herdsmen to freely roam with their cattle and weapons, which are used in attacks against the residents.”
Meanwhile, protester Titus Numzua, a resident of Seghev/Yegev council ward where the attacks occurred, highlighted the challenges posed by the surge in herders infiltrating the area, further complicating security dynamics for many communities in Gwer West.
Numzua also appealed to the federal government for enhanced protection measures and urged the governor to provide logistical support to security forces, the Benue State Livestock Guards, and the Community Volunteer Guards, supplementing the efforts of conventional security agencies to restore peace in Gwer West.
Expressing sympathy for the victims, Senator Titus Zam, representing Benue North West Senatorial District, denounced the coordinated assaults on constituents that resulted in significant casualties.
In a similar vein, Arc. Dr. Asema Achado, the representative for Gwer East/Gwer West Federal Constituency, condemned the brutal killings within his community and called upon the Benue State Government to enforce the ban on open grazing while ensuring that perpetrators of such heinous crimes face justice.