Tension in Benue as Protesters Block Governor Alia’s Convoy During Visit to Attack Victims

Tension gripped Afia Community in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State on Saturday, April 19, 2025, after a group of angry youths, women, and children staged a protest that led to the temporary blockade of Governor Hyacinth Alia’s convoy. The incident unfolded during the governor’s official visit to assess the security situation and deliver humanitarian relief to victims of recent armed herdsmen attacks in the area.

The protest, which began at approximately 3:30 p.m., momentarily disrupted the governor’s itinerary and sparked security concerns in the already volatile region. The convoy included senior government officials, among them the Benue State Commissioner of Police, CP Steve Hassan Yabanet, and other top-ranking security personnel.

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Protesters Chant “We No Gree” as Tensions Escalate

According to intelligence sources cited by security analyst Zagazola Makama, the protesters formed a human barricade on the main road leading to the planned town hall meeting venue in Afia Community. Chanting “we no gree” and other anti-government slogans, the demonstrators expressed frustration over what they described as inadequate protection and poor government response to incessant attacks by armed herdsmen.

Eyewitnesses say the crowd was made up of mostly youths, women, and even children—many of whom were visibly distressed. The protest was reportedly spontaneous but believed to have been orchestrated by loyalists of a local political figure opposed to the governor’s leadership.

The situation quickly escalated as the protesters refused to allow the governor’s convoy to pass. Security operatives responded with minimal force to disperse the crowd and clear the path for the governor’s motorcade. While no fatalities or serious injuries were reported, the windscreen of the police commissioner’s vehicle was damaged during the commotion.

Governor Alia’s Tour Continues Despite Disruption

Despite the disruption, Governor Alia continued with his scheduled tour. Earlier in the day, he had successfully visited several communities in Logo Local Government Area, which has also suffered from frequent attacks by suspected herdsmen.

The purpose of the tour was twofold: to assess the on-ground security situation and to distribute relief materials to displaced and traumatized residents. Items distributed included food supplies, bedding, and essential health kits.

Speaking during one of the stops, Governor Alia reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to restoring peace in Benue’s troubled areas. “We will not rest until every Benue citizen can sleep with both eyes closed,” he said. “No community should have to live in fear.”

Security Forces Launch Investigation

In the aftermath of the protest, authorities have launched an investigation to identify those behind the blockade. Preliminary intelligence suggests that the demonstration may have been politically motivated, a claim that is now being scrutinized by state security agencies.

A senior police official, who requested anonymity, stated, “While the people have the right to express their grievances, orchestrating a blockade against the governor’s convoy is a serious security breach. We are following leads that point to possible political incitement.”

The same source confirmed that security has been reinforced in the area, and normalcy has since been restored.

A Symptom of Deeper Discontent

The protest in Afia is viewed by some observers as symptomatic of the wider frustrations gripping many rural communities in Benue State, where residents have long complained of insecurity, lack of government presence, and repeated displacement by violent herdsmen.

For years, Ukum and other local governments have been at the epicenter of violent clashes between farming communities and armed invaders, leaving hundreds dead and thousands homeless.

“The people are tired,” said one local resident who preferred to remain anonymous. “We keep burying our loved ones, and yet the government says they are doing something. If they were, would we still be living like this?”

A Call for Dialogue and Action

The events in Afia have reignited calls for deeper dialogue between state authorities and grassroots communities. While the governor’s visit was intended to reassure the people, the protest served as a stark reminder of the growing mistrust between government and rural populations in crisis-hit areas.

Human rights groups and civil society organizations have called for calm, urging the government to step up its efforts in addressing the root causes of insecurity while promoting transparency and community engagement.

As investigations continue and the state works to heal from its latest tragedy, many are hoping that the protest—though brief—will serve as a wake-up call to intensify action and bring lasting peace to Benue’s beleaguered communities.