Tension in Benue as soldiers allegedly beat, disarm youth volunteers preparing for self-defense in Apa

Tension heightened in Apa Local Government Area of Benue State on Thursday after soldiers allegedly assaulted and disarmed local youth volunteers mobilising to defend their communities against persistent attacks by suspected armed herders.

The incident occurred in Adija community, days after three farmers were reportedly killed in Ikobi, one of several communities that have witnessed repeated attacks in recent months, TruthNigeria reports. 

Sources said youth volunteers from various communities had gathered in Ologo and Asaba villages to discuss security concerns and community protection measures before they were intercepted by soldiers while returning home.

During the encounter, a local vigilante commander, Olowo Otache, and his younger brother were allegedly beaten and sustained injuries. They were later taken to General Hospital, Ugbokpo, for treatment.

The development sparked outrage among residents, leading to protests and a temporary blockade of the Otukpo-Oweto Federal Highway by angry youths demanding greater protection for their communities.

Speaking on the incident, a youth volunteer, Adu Aboh, said the decision by local youths to mobilise was prompted by the continued attacks and killings in the area.

“People are angry because the killings have continued for too long. Communities are under constant threat, and many residents feel abandoned,” he said.

Aboh alleged that soldiers confiscated locally made firearms belonging to some of the volunteers during the operation.

Another resident, Energy Onoja, claimed that local volunteers had been working with security agencies, particularly the police, to safeguard communities, but expressed frustration over the latest development.

“Our concern is the safety of our people. The communities want to be protected and allowed to defend themselves within the law when attacks occur,” he said.

Residents also expressed concern over the growing insecurity along the Apa-Agatu axis, where several communities have reportedly suffered repeated attacks, displacement and loss of livelihoods.

Ofu Adu, a resident of Ochumekwu community, alleged that security agencies were often alerted before attacks but intervention sometimes came late.

The latest incident has renewed calls for increased security presence in vulnerable communities across Apa Local Government Area.

Community leaders urged the Federal Government, security agencies and the Benue State Government to strengthen efforts to curb the violence and restore confidence among residents.

As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian military had not issued an official statement on the allegations.

The incident comes amid growing concerns over insecurity in parts of Benue State, where attacks on rural communities continue to pose challenges to farming activities and economic life.