Hundreds of youths from Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State blocked the Oweto–Otukpo highway near Oweto Bridge on Saturday, halting traffic for hours to protest ongoing killings by suspected armed herders and demand government intervention.
The demonstration, organised by the Agatu West Peace and Unity Forum, began Friday and continued into the weekend. Protesters held placards reading “Stop Agatu killings now” and “Save Agatu now,” calling on both federal and state authorities to restore security and allow displaced residents to return home.
Mr. Ebi Lucky, National Youth President of the forum, said repeated attacks since 2013 have forced thousands from their farmlands. He noted many displaced persons have lived in makeshift shelters along the Oweto River for over two years without adequate food, healthcare, or education.
“Our people have been in this trouble for the past two and a half years. All we are demanding is peace in Agatu land and the opportunity to return to our farms,” Lucky said, accusing Governor Hyacinth Alia and local chairman Melvin Ejeh of neglect.
The group appealed to federal lawmakers representing the area—Ojema Ojotu (House) and Patrick Aba Moro (Senate)—to push for concrete action. They also urged the Tinubu administration to deploy more security personnel to vulnerable communities, describing several entry points as porous.
Agatu, a largely Idoma farming and fishing region in southern Benue, has seen persistent violence. Victim Mercy Danladi recounted losing her husband, sister, and cousin in attacks between 2013 and 2025, pleading for urgent federal security intervention.
Displaced resident Ajumi John said over 200 internally displaced persons now live in riverbank huts. “Our community has been taken over by the militia. When it rains, we cover stick-and-grass roofs with leather,” he said.
Mr. Dandy Adoba, National Secretary of the forum, claimed more than 15 villages in Agatu West have been overrun, with hundreds killed and nearby security units yet to deploy to worst-hit areas. “Our people are dying almost on a daily basis,” he stated.
The Divisional Police Officer for Agatu, CSP Dennis Asawa, who monitored the protest, commended demonstrators for maintaining peace. “Their message has been conveyed to the authorities, and appropriate actions will be taken,” he said.
Protesters vowed to continue actions until authorities end the violence and facilitate safe returns. The protest underscores intensifying pressure on Nigerian security forces to protect rural communities in Benue, a state often at the centre of Nigeria’s herder-farmer conflicts.
