Irate youths in Gwer West Local Government Area of Benue State set fire to the Local Government Secretariat in Naka and the palace of the Gwer West Traditional Council Chairman, HRH Daniel Abomtse, on Tuesday morning.
The violent protest erupted following the alleged killing of three Civil Protection Guards by suspected armed herdsmen on Monday.
According to eyewitnesses, the unrest began around 7:00 am when the bodies of the slain security personnel were brought to Naka for burial.
Angered by the killings and the perceived lack of government action against herdsmen attacks, the youths took to the streets.
The situation escalated when hoodlums reportedly hijacked the protest, setting fire to properties, including a hotel belonging to Senator Titus Zam, who represents Benue North West in the Senate.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Gwer West LGA, Victor Omirin, stated that the demonstration started peacefully but later turned violent. Similarly, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Internal Security, Joseph Har, acknowledged the destruction but could not confirm whether the deceased were members of the Civil Protection Guards.
HRH Daniel Abomtse, who was away for medical reasons, confirmed that his palace was burned down, along with valuable properties, including vehicles and motorcycles.
The Benue State Police Command, through its spokesperson CSP Catherine Anene, stated that the Commissioner of Police had deployed tactical teams to restore order.
Security forces are currently working to contain the situation, and further updates are expected.
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