Agatu youths block Oweto–Otukpo road, demand action against ongoing killings in Benue

Hundreds of youths from Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State staged a protest on Saturday along the Oweto–Otukpo highway, blocking traffic near the Oweto Bridge. The demonstration aimed to draw urgent attention to the persistent attacks on residents by suspected armed herders.

Organized under the banner of the Agatu West Peace and Unity Forum, the protesters began their action on Friday and maintained the blockade for several hours, causing significant traffic disruption and highlighting the deteriorating security in their communities.

Carrying placards with inscriptions such as “Stop Agatu killings now,” “Save Agatu now,” and “We do not need Fulani in Agatu,” the demonstrators called on both the Federal and Benue State governments to take immediate steps to restore peace.

Addressing the crowd, Mr. Ebi Lucky, National Youth President of the Agatu West Peace and Unity Forum, said repeated attacks by suspected Fulani militias have forced many families to abandon their ancestral homes.

“Many of our people have been displaced for over two and a half years. They are living here along the Oweto River without adequate shelter, food, education, or healthcare,” Lucky stated.

He noted that the protest was intended to urge the Federal Government, led by Bola Ahmed Tinubu, to intervene and halt the ongoing attacks across Agatu West.

Lucky also criticized the administration of Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia and Agatu Local Government Chairman, Hon. Melvin Ejeh, for failing to assist affected communities.

“We have appealed to the local government chairman and the state governor, but no meaningful help has come. All we want is peace and the ability to return to our farms,” he added.

The protesters also urged Ojema Ojotu, member representing Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency, and Senator Patrick Aba Moro, representing Benue South, to take concrete measures to alleviate the suffering of their constituents.

They demanded increased deployment of security personnel to vulnerable areas, particularly entry points commonly used by attackers.

Agatu, predominantly inhabited by the Idoma people, relies largely on farming and fishing. Victim accounts highlighted the human toll of the violence.

Mrs. Mercy Danladi recounted losing her husband, sister, and cousin in separate attacks on Ochelefu village between 2013 and 2025.

Ajumi John, another displaced resident, revealed that over 200 internally displaced persons are currently living in makeshift huts along the riverbank.

“Our community has been taken over by militias. During the rains, we cover our stick-and-grass roofs with leather,” he said.

The demonstrators vowed to continue their protest until authorities take tangible steps to stop the killings and enable the safe return of displaced families.

CSP Dennis Asawa, Divisional Police Officer of Agatu Division, commended the protesters for their orderly conduct during the blockade.

“The protesters have conveyed their message peacefully, and the authorities are expected to respond appropriately,” he said.

Mr. Dandy Adoba, National Secretary of the Agatu West Peace and Unity Forum, added that over 15 villages in Agatu West have been overrun by armed herders since 2013, leaving hundreds dead while security forces remain largely inactive in the worst-hit areas.

“Our people are dying almost daily. We appeal to the Federal Government to deploy security personnel so that displaced residents can safely return home,” Adoba emphasized.