Tension is running high in the community of Udei, located in the Nyiev Council Ward of Guma Local Government Area, Benue State, after soldiers allegedly killed three youths in the area. The incident occurred on Sunday morning, following a confrontation between local youths and security operatives.
According to Comrade Joseph Apahar Joo, Media and Publicity Officer for Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Benue State, the trouble began when community youths apprehended a suspected herder in possession of a motorcycle that allegedly belonged to a soldier named Mr. Suleiman. During interrogation, the herder confessed to using the motorcycle to carry out a recent attack in Yelewata, also in Nyiev Council Ward, which resulted in the deaths of several people.
When the youths presented the herder’s confession to the military camp, along with evidence including bloodstains on the motorcycle, the situation escalated. The soldier, Suleiman, admitted to giving the motorcycle to the herder, claiming it was to help transport a colleague who had been bitten by a snake. However, when the youths pressed for the herder to be held accountable, the soldiers responded violently. Eyewitnesses reported that the troops opened fire indiscriminately, killing three young men on the spot.
The community remains on edge, with fears of a potential attack by armed herders exacerbating residents’ anxiety. Comrade Apahar has urged the Benue State Government and federal authorities to intervene immediately and deploy an independent security team to prevent further escalation and ensure the safety of residents. As of the time of filing this report, efforts to reach the Nigerian Army authorities for comment were ongoing.
The situation in Udei highlights the ongoing tensions between local communities and security forces in Nigeria, particularly in areas affected by herder-farmer conflicts. The call for an independent security team to be deployed to the area underscores the need for a more effective and accountable response to the security challenges faced by communities like Udei. As the situation continues to unfold, it is essential that the authorities prioritize the safety and well-being of residents and take swift action to address the underlying causes of these conflicts.