Angry youths launch attack on Gov Alia’s convoy in Makurdi

On Wednesday, there were reports of a group of young individuals attacking the convoy of Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, in Ugondu community in Makurdi LGA of the state.

These youths, who hail from Ugondu community, threw stones at the governor’s convoy to express their protest against the decision to bury Engr. Michael Vaatia, the proprietor of Vaatia College, Makurdi, within the school premises located in their community.

As a result, six of these protesting youths were apprehended by the police for their actions.

Governor Alia had visited Vaatia College to evaluate the preparations for the burial of the deceased proprietor, who is scheduled to be laid to rest on Thursday.

The irate youths from Ugondu community allegedly stormed the school and vandalized the grave.

The governor’s address to community leaders in the school was disrupted by a large group of individuals who were seen chanting war songs.

Reports indicate that these individuals encountered resistance from security escorts who tried to prevent them from entering the school premises, resulting in members of the governor’s entourage being stranded outside.

To intimidate others, it is said that the group fired gunshots into the air, but their efforts were thwarted when the police special unit, known as Operation Zenda, arrived on the scene and arrested several of them.

During his speech, Governor Alia cautioned against actions that could breed disorder and division in the state, addressing a group of Ugondu community leaders, including former Senator Fred Orti, retired Permanent Secretary Akange Audu, Ter Makurdi, and other traditional rulers.

“I have come to correct some misgivings that happened in the rulership of your son as governor.

“I sent both the Tiv, Idoma, and other tribes overseas for training without discrimination.

“I want to believe you, the traditional and community leaders, denying involvement in what has happened.

“Surely, some youths arrested will make confessions and if they mention your name, be ready to go and answer.”