Soldiers, Students Clash Over Girlfriend in Benue Community

A violent clash erupted in Abako town, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, between soldiers and secondary school students over a dispute involving a female student. The confrontation led to students setting an army checkpoint on fire, while soldiers allegedly opened fire, injuring some students.

According to reports, the conflict began when a soldier, who was in a relationship with a student named Veronica, bought her a pair of earrings. When she wore them to school, the head girl confiscated them, citing school regulations. Veronica then reported the incident to soldiers stationed at the town’s checkpoint.

During a break period, the head girl went to the market to buy breakfast but was allegedly harassed and assaulted by soldiers for seizing the earrings. A teacher who intervened was also reportedly attacked. As news of the harassment spread, students mobilized and stormed the checkpoint, leading to an altercation.

Eyewitnesses claim that the soldiers fired at the students, but the students overpowered them, setting the checkpoint ablaze and clearing road barricades. The incident heightened tensions in Katsina-Ala, where residents have previously expressed frustration over the presence of soldiers. Many questioned why troops deployed for security purposes were engaging in relationships with secondary school students.

Local authorities confirmed the incident but assured that normalcy had returned. Meanwhile, the school administration has announced plans to seek legal action, with intentions to petition the Chief of Army Staff in Abuja.