Benue police have arrested 14 suspects linked to a protest in Makurdi that turned deadly on Sunday.
A truck driver was killed after his vehicle was torched, prompting vows of prosecution and tighter security.
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the arrest of 14 individuals accused of hijacking a peaceful protest in Makurdi on Sunday, turning it into a violent incident that claimed a life.
According to a statement released by the Command’s spokesperson, SP Udeme Edet, the suspects were apprehended after a group of youths blocked a major road in the Apir area, on the outskirts of the state capital. During the disruption, the suspects forcefully stopped a truck and set it ablaze, with the driver still inside. Authorities are yet to identify the deceased.
Edet disclosed that the suspects are currently in custody and will face prosecution, adding that investigations are ongoing to track down other perpetrators and masterminds behind the unrest.
The statement partly read: “The Benue State Police Command acknowledges the public demonstration that occurred on Sunday, June 15, 2025, at Wurukum Roundabout, Makurdi, where protesters gathered to express their concerns over recent security challenges in the state.
“While the right to peaceful protest is protected, it must be exercised within the boundaries of the law.”
Upon receiving information about the protest, tactical police units were deployed to ensure order. The Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, accompanied by the Deputy Governor of Benue State, Barr. John Ode, personally visited the scene to address the crowd and appeal for calm.
However, the protesters declined to engage with officials, and the situation quickly escalated when the demonstration was taken over by violent elements who reportedly attempted to assault the deputy governor.
Security personnel acted swiftly, deploying non-lethal measures such as smoke and water cannons to disperse the mob and safely evacuate the deputy governor. Fortunately, no injuries or casualties were reported during that intervention.
Tragically, a separate group of hoodlums believed to be sympathetic to the protest later attacked a vehicle along the Apir route. They intercepted the truck, set it on fire, and the trapped driver was killed in the blaze.
“So far, 14 suspects have been arrested in connection with these violent acts. They will be prosecuted to the full extent of the law,” Edet confirmed. “Efforts are ongoing to identify and apprehend others involved in orchestrating the violence.”
While reiterating support for lawful civic expression, the police condemned the destruction and unlawful actions witnessed during the protest. The command also commended the peaceful demonstrators who maintained order and reassured the public of its commitment to maintaining peace and security across Benue State.
