By Bagu Patience Kadoon.
For over a decade, Gwer-West has been plagued by attacks allegedly perpetrated by Fulani herdsmen, resulting in loss of life, property damage, displacement of people, and disruption of economic activities. The most recent attack, which occurred on March 10, 2025, claimed three lives, sparking widespread outrage.
In response to the killings, irate youths in Naka, the local government headquarters, burned down the council secretariat and the palace of the Chairman of the Gwer-West Traditional Council, HRH Daniel Abomtse, on March 11, 2025. Other properties, including a hotel belonging to Senator Titus Zam, were also razed.
Eyewitnesses reported that the angry mob took to the streets after the bodies of the three murdered Civil Protection Guards were brought to Naka for burial.
A resident, Gber Tamen, attributed the violence to the government’s perceived inaction against the armed herdsmen’s incursions and killings in Gwer-West.
The Chairman of Gwer-West LGA, Victor Torsar Ormin, claimed that the protest was hijacked by hoodlums, who destroyed public property. He condemned the attacks and urged citizens to cooperate with security agencies. In a bid to restore order, Chairman Ormin declared a curfew.
The Benue State Government, led by Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, condemned the vicious attack and murder of the Civil Protection Guards. The government called for increased vigilance and collaboration with security agencies to apprehend the perpetrators.
To address the security challenges in Gwer-West, the government should adopt a multi-faceted approach, including: Increased military and police deployment to high-risk areas, enhanced training for local vigilante groups, strengthened collaboration among communities and security agencies and regular engagement with local communities to update them on security measures.
The people of Gwer-West deserve peace, safety, justice, and the opportunity to rebuild their lives. It is imperative that the government finds a lasting solution to the cycle of violence in the area.
