On Tuesday morning, angry youths in Benue State’s Gwer West LGA set fire to the palace of HRH Daniel Abomtse, the chairman of the Gwer West Traditional Council, as well as the Local Government Secretariat in Naka.

The disturbances came after suspected armed ranchers killed three Civil Protection Guard members on Monday.

The bodies of the killed security guards were taken to Naka for burial at 7:00 am, according to witnesses, marking the start of the protest.

The young people rushed to the streets in anger at the killings and what they saw as the government’s lack of response to attacks by herdsmen.

When thugs allegedly took over the demonstration and set fire to structures, including a hotel owned by Senator Titus Zam, who represents Benue North West in the Senate, the situation became more heated.

Victor Omirin, the Chairman of Gwer West LGA, confirmed the incident and stated that the protest started out peacefully before degenerating into violence.

Joseph Har, the Governor’s Special Advisor on Internal Security, admitted the damage but was unable to verify whether the dead were Civil Protection Guardsmen.

The destruction of his palace and assets, including cars and motorcycles, was confirmed by HRH Daniel Abomtse, who was absent due to medical reasons.

According to CSP Catherine Anene, spokesperson for the Benue State Police Command, the Commissioner of Police had sent out tactical units to bring the peace back.

As security forces attempt to contain the situation, more developments are anticipated.