Irate youths in Gwer West LGA of Benue State on Tuesday morning set fire to the Local Government Secretariat in Naka and the palace of the Gwer West Traditional Council Chairman, HRH Daniel Abomtse.
The unrest followed the alleged killing of three members of the Civil Protection Guards by suspected armed herdsmen on Monday.
Eyewitnesses report that the protest began at 7:00 am when the bodies of the slain security personnel were brought to Naka for burial.
Angered by the killings and the perceived government inaction against herdsmen attacks, the youths took to the streets.
The situation escalated when hoodlums allegedly hijacked the protest, leading to the burning of properties, including a hotel belonging to Senator Titus Zam, who represents Benue North West in the Senate.
Confirming the incident, the Chairman of Gwer West LGA, Victor Omirin, said the demonstration was initially peaceful but later turned violent.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Internal Security, Joseph Har, acknowledged the destruction but could not confirm if the deceased were members of the Civil Protection Guards.
HRH Daniel Abomtse, who was away for medical reasons, confirmed the razing of his palace and valuables, including vehicles and motorcycles.
The Benue State Police Command, through its spokesperson, CSP Catherine Anene, stated that the Commissioner of Police had deployed tactical teams to restore order.
