6 arrested in Makurdi for attacking Governor's convoy

By Iheanyi Chukwudi

Six protesting youths of Ugondu community in Makurdi Local Government of Benue State, have been arrested by the Police for attacking the convoy of the State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia.

Some youths of the community were reported to have pelted the Governor’s convoy with stones on Wednesday, while protesting over plans to bury the proprietor of Vaatia College, Makurdi, Engr. Michael Vaatia within the school premises located in their community.

Gov Alia was on a visit to Vaatia College to assess the level of preparation for the burial of the deceased proprietor, when the incident occurred.

The Vaatia College proprietor, Engr Vaatia, was said to have died a couple of days ago and was to be buried within the school premises on today (Thursday).

However, the irate youths from the host community of Ugondu allegedly invaded the school and destroyed the grave.

They in large numbers were also seen chanting war songs when the Governor was in the school, addressing leaders of the community and equally disrupted the proceedings as security escorts attempted to prevent them from accessing the school, while some of the Governor’s entourage were trapped outside.

Also sources said the youths allegedly fired gunshots into the air to scare people but were overpowered with the arrival of the Police Special Unit, code-named Operation Zenda, leading to the arrest of some of them.

Meanwhile, Gov Alia, had while addressing leaders of Ugondu community, among them, former Sen. Fred Orti, retired Permanent Secretary, Akange Audu, Ter Makurdi, and other traditional rulers, cautioned against acts that could create chaos and disunity in the state.

He said, “I have come to correct some misgivings that happened in the rulership of your son as Governor. I sent both the Tiv, Idoma, and other tribes overseas for training without discrimination."

“I want to believe you, the traditional and community leaders, denying involvement in what has happened. Surely, some youths arrested will make confessions and if they mention your name, be ready to go and answer.”

The Governor noted that about a week ago, an Igbo man and one other person who died were buried in Makurdi town without protest from any youth group and called for calm.

Addressing students on campus later, the Governor assured them of safety during and after the burial.

He directed the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations to ensure that peace prevails during the wake-keep and the burial slated for today.