Angry youths stone, boo Gov Alia in Makurdi



 A group of youths reportedly assaulted the convoy of the Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, in Ugondu community in Makurdi LGA of the state on Wednesday. The protesters, hailing from Ugondu community, threw stones at the governor's convoy to express their opposition to the burial plans for the late proprietor of Vaatia College, Makurdi, Engr. Michael Vaatia, within their community's school premises.

According to sources, six of the protesting Ugondu youths were apprehended by the police for hurling objects at the governor's convoy. Governor Alia had visited Vaatia College to assess the preparations for the burial of Engr. Vaatia, who passed away recently and was scheduled for interment within the school premises on Thursday.

During the governor's visit, irate youths from Ugondu reportedly invaded the school, vandalizing the grave and disrupting proceedings. The protesters, chanting war songs, clashed with security escorts attempting to restrict their access to the school. Police special unit Operation Zenda intervened, arresting several of the agitated youths and quelling the disturbance.

Governor Alia, addressing community leaders, urged against actions that could incite chaos and disunity in the state. He emphasized his efforts to promote inclusivity, recalling initiatives that benefited various tribal groups. The governor warned community leaders to be accountable if any arrested youths implicated them in the unrest.

Governor Alia assured students of their safety during and after the burial, directing the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations to maintain peace during the wake-keep and burial scheduled for Thursday. As of the latest update, reconstruction of the damaged grave by the Ugondu youths was underway in preparation for the deceased proprietor's interment.

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