Residents raise alarm as armed men allegedly burn down Benue market

Residents and traders in Sai and Abagi communities of Katsina-Ala Local Government Area in Benue State have raised concerns after the newly established Adigba Market was reportedly set on fire over the weekend.

According to eyewitnesses, individuals suspected to be armed security operatives carried out the attack, destroying several stalls and goods belonging to traders.

Adigba Market, situated between the Sai and Abako communities in Katsina-Ala LGA, was recently inaugurated by the local government chairman, Justin Shaku, as part of efforts to promote local trade and provide a secure environment for business activities.

Residents explained that tension began late Friday night when armed personnel allegedly entered the market during what was believed to be a routine patrol.

Witnesses said the operatives arrived in three Hilux vans along with several motorcycles at a time when traders and youths had gathered in the market area to watch a football match.

“They shone torchlights around the market and conducted a search but didn’t find anything before leaving,” a resident narrated.

However, residents claimed that around 4 a.m. the following morning, the same armed men returned and allegedly set the market ablaze.

A trader said the incident has left many business owners counting heavy losses.

“We were here watching the Chelsea match when they first came with vehicles and motorcycles,” the trader recalled.

“They searched the place and left, but around 4 a.m., they returned and burned down the entire market.”

Attempts to get confirmation from the spokesperson of the Benue State Police Command, DSP Udeme Edet, were unsuccessful as of the time of filing this report.