Governor Alia Faces Hostility: Youths Stone And Boo In Makurdi

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On Wednesday, there were reports of a group of young individuals assaulting the convoy of Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, in the Ugondu community of Makurdi LGA…CONTINUE READING

The reason behind this attack was the protest by Ugondu youths against the proposed burial of Vaatia College’s proprietor, Engr. Michael Vaatia, within the school premises situated in their community.

In response to the pelting of stones at the governor’s convoy by these protesters, the police apprehended six of the agitating Ugondu youths. Governor Alia had visited Vaatia College to assess the preparations for the burial of Engr.

Vaatia, who passed away recently and was scheduled to be laid to rest within the school premises on Thursday.

The enraged youths from Ugondu allegedly stormed the school, vandalizing the grave. During the governor’s address to community leaders, the youths disrupted proceedings, chanting war songs.

The security escorts attempted to prevent their access to the school, resulting in some of the governor’s entourage being stranded outside.

Sources revealed that the youths fired gunshots into the air, but the arrival of the police special unit, Operation Zenda, led to their overpowering, and several arrests were made.

Governor Alia, addressing community leaders, warned against actions that could sow discord and disunity in the state.

He clarified previous misconceptions and urged leaders to cooperate in resolving the situation. Governor Alia assured the students of their safety during and after the burial and directed the Assistant Commissioner of Police to ensure peace during the wake-keep and burial scheduled for Thursday.

At the time of reporting, the reconstruction of the damaged grave by the angered Ugondu youths was underway ahead of the deceased proprietor’s interment on Thursday.