Youths Stone and Boo Governor Alia in Makurdi Over Burial Dispute.
Angry youths in Ugondu community, Makurdi LGA of Benue State, reportedly attacked the convoy of the state Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, on Wednesday. The protest erupted over plans to bury the proprietor of Vaatia College, Engr. Michael Vaatia, within the school premises located in their community.
The youths from Ugondu community pelted the governor’s convoy with stones, expressing their opposition to the burial within the school premises. Six of the protesting youths were subsequently arrested by the police for their actions.
Governor Alia had visited Vaatia College to assess the preparations for the burial of Engr. Vaatia, who recently passed away. The deceased, who was the proprietor of the college, was scheduled to be buried within the school premises on Thursday.
The angry youths reportedly invaded the school and damaged the grave. They disrupted proceedings as security escorts attempted to prevent them from accessing the school. The governor’s entourage was also reportedly trapped outside.
In response to the situation, the police special unit, Operation Zenda, was called in, resulting in the arrest of several of the protesting youths. The governor, addressing leaders of the Ugondu community, cautioned against actions that could create chaos and disunity in the state.
Read Also Popular Senior Lecturer Slumps, Dies in His Office (Photo)
Governor Alia stated, “I have come to correct some misgivings that happened in the rulership of your son as governor. I sent both the Tiv, Idoma, and other tribes overseas for training without discrimination. I want to believe you, the traditional and community leaders, denying involvement in what has happened. Surely, some youths arrested will make confessions, and if they mention your name, be ready to go and answer.”
Read Also Breaking: NLC, TUC Suspend Nationwide Strike
He highlighted the peaceful burials of individuals from different tribes in Makurdi town over the past week and called for calm. The governor assured students of safety during and after the burial, directing the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations to ensure peace prevails during the wake-keep and burial scheduled for Thursday.
As of the time of this report, reconstruction of the damaged grave by the irate Ugondu youths was underway ahead of the interment of the deceased proprietor.
