BREAKING: Angry Youths Shut Down Abuja-Makurdi Highway Over Benue Killings

Tension soared in Benue State on Saturday as angry youths staged a massive protest, blocking the ever-busy Abuja-Makurdi highway in a bold demand for justice and security following yet another wave of deadly violence in the state.

Clad in black clothing and waving palm fronds, the protesters carried placards bearing heart-wrenching messages condemning the ongoing killings, which they say have continued unabated despite repeated calls for help.

The demonstration came barely 24 hours after a horrific attack by suspected armed herdsmen on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, where over 200 people were reportedly massacred in one of the deadliest assaults in recent times.

Vehicular movement on the highway was brought to a complete standstill, causing major gridlock and panic among travelers. The visibly agitated protesters insisted they would not leave the road until concrete actions are taken by the federal and state governments to protect lives and bring the perpetrators to justice.

Despite an earlier advisory by the Benue State Government cautioning against unlawful gatherings, especially by youths in volatile areas, the demonstrators said their decision was born out of frustration and abandonment by authorities.

“We are tired of burying our brothers and sisters every week,” one of the youth leaders shouted. “We have cried enough. If the government won’t come to our aid, we will bring the country’s attention here.”

As of the time of filing this report, security personnel were seen trying to calm the situation, while the protest continued peacefully but firmly.

This marks yet another chapter in Benue’s ongoing struggle with insecurity, with calls growing louder for decisive federal intervention to end the bloodshed and restore peace in the state.