Angry youths in Benue South blocked a key highway in Apa Local Government Area on Saturday, halting the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary elections and demanding an end to the wave of killings that have plagued the Idoma‑speaking communities.
The demonstrators, carrying a coffin and placards bearing slogans such as “No election,” forced traffic to stop and disrupted political activities in the area. “The youths of Apa are saying no to any primary election until the insecurity situation in our land is addressed,” one protester said, emphasizing that voting cannot proceed while insecurity continues to claim lives.
Residents of Apa have lived under a heightened sense of fear after repeated attacks allegedly carried out by armed herdsmen and other criminal elements. The youths argued that political leaders must prioritize the protection of lives and property before pursuing party primaries or other political exercises.
The protest reflects broader frustration across Benue State, where insecurity has disrupted daily life and undermined confidence in governmental responses. While the APC’s internal voting schedule remains unresolved, authorities have been urged to address the security vacuum that has allowed violence to persist.
The incident underscores the growing intersection of security concerns and electoral processes in Nigeria’s volatile regions. Observers note that continued unrest could delay or derail upcoming political events if not swiftly mitigated. Stakeholders are now watching for a response from both state security agencies and the APC’s leadership, as the demand for safety remains paramount for any credible electoral undertaking.
