14 Arrested After Protesters Set Truck, Driver Ablaze in Benue

Fourteen people have been arrested following a violent turn during a protest in Makurdi, Benue State, that led to a truck being set on fire with the driver still inside. The incident occurred on Sunday, June 15, 2025, after a group of protesters gathered at Wurukum Roundabout to express concerns over recent security challenges in the state.

According to a statement issued by the Benue State Police Command through its spokesperson, Udeme Edet, the protest, which began peacefully, was hijacked by disruptive individuals. These elements attempted to attack the Deputy Governor, Barrister John Ode, who had accompanied the Commissioner of Police, CP Ifeanyi Emenari, to the scene to engage with the demonstrators and appeal for calm.

The police deployed tactical units and used non-lethal crowd control measures such as smoke and water cannons to disperse the gathering and ensure the safe evacuation of the deputy governor. No injuries or casualties were reported from the initial confrontation.

However, later the same day, a separate group believed to be sympathetic to the protest blocked a road in Apir, a suburb of Makurdi. They intercepted a truck, forcibly stopped it, and set it ablaze with the unidentified driver still trapped inside. The victim’s identity and condition remain unconfirmed at the time of reporting.

The police have confirmed the arrest of 14 suspects connected to the violence and have pledged to prosecute them accordingly. Investigations are ongoing to identify and apprehend other individuals involved in the attack and those who incited the violence.

While reaffirming the right to peaceful protest, the police condemned the acts of arson and lawlessness that marred the demonstration. The command praised the conduct of peaceful protesters and reiterated its commitment to safeguarding public order and ensuring the safety of all residents across the state.