Tension gripped parts of Benue State on Sunday as youths from Agatu blocked the busy Oweto–Otukpo Highway in protest against the continued killings and insecurity affecting communities in the area.
The protesting youths, numbering in the hundreds, took to the highway early in the morning, using logs, stones, and burning tyres to barricade the road. The action disrupted vehicular movement and left many travelers stranded for several hours along the major route that connects several towns within the state.
Carrying placards and chanting solidarity songs, the demonstrators expressed anger over what they described as repeated violent attacks on their communities by armed assailants. They accused authorities of not doing enough to protect residents despite numerous reports of killings, destruction of property, and displacement of villagers.
Some of the protesters said the road blockade was intended to draw the attention of both the state and federal governments to the worsening security situation in Agatu and surrounding communities. According to them, several villages have suffered repeated attacks in recent months, forcing many families to flee their homes.
Community leaders who spoke during the protest said residents have been living in fear as farmers struggle to access their farmlands due to the threat of violence. They warned that the continued insecurity is affecting food production and livelihoods in the predominantly agrarian area.
The demonstrators demanded the immediate deployment of additional security personnel to the affected communities, as well as the establishment of permanent security posts to prevent further attacks. They also called for a thorough investigation into the killings and the arrest of those responsible.
Motorists and passengers caught in the blockade expressed frustration over the disruption but also sympathized with the protesters, noting that the security challenges in the area have become increasingly alarming.
Security operatives were later reported to have arrived at the scene to monitor the situation and engage community representatives in dialogue in an effort to restore calm and reopen the highway.
Residents said the protest reflects growing frustration among young people in the area who feel that their communities have been repeatedly targeted without adequate protection. They urged authorities to act swiftly to prevent further loss of lives and restore peace to Agatu and other affected parts of Benue State.