Youths in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State have accused security agencies of arresting innocent community members instead of pursuing perpetrators behind repeated attacks on their communities.
In a petition submitted to the Benue State Commissioner of Police, the youths highlighted sustained assaults by suspected Fulani herdsmen since 2013, which have resulted in deaths, destruction of homes and farmlands, and widespread economic hardship.
“Our land has been under unprovoked attacks since 2013, resulting in loss of lives, destruction of properties, and wanton devastation of farmlands,” the petition read.
The youths alleged that authorities’ failure to decisively confront the attackers has emboldened them and raised suspicions of possible collusion with individuals in positions of authority. They further claimed that victims who speak out are often arrested instead of being protected.
“The situation worsens when those brutalised by the herdsmen dare to speak out, only to be arrested, charged, and sometimes never seen again,” the petition added.
The youths specifically cited a security raid in Obagaji, the headquarters of Agatu LGA, on January 25, 2026, during which individuals questioning the herdsmen’s actions were reportedly arrested and taken to undisclosed locations. They demanded their immediate and unconditional release.
The petition also questioned the role of security operatives deployed to the area, alleging that some officers intimidate rather than protect residents. “We have reasons to suspect a conspiracy and alleged alliance between security agents and the enemies intruding in our land,” the petition stated.
Expressing a loss of confidence in the existing security framework, the youths called for the establishment of a locally driven internal security network to safeguard the community.
They urged the Commissioner of Police to urgently intervene, protect lives and property, investigate the attacks, and hold anyone complicit accountable. Copies of the petition were sent to local and state representatives, including the Och’Idoma, Senator Abbah Moro, members of the House of Representatives and Benue State House of Assembly, the Agatu Local Government chairman, and the Divisional Police Officer.
As of the time of filing this report, the Benue State Police Command had not responded to the allegations.
