*Speaker orders release of protesters
The Senior Pastor, Harvesters International Christian Centre (HICC), Bolaji Idowu has challenged the government to bring the perpetrators of Yelewata, Buenue State murder to book.
It is believed that more than 200 people have died in a series of attacks across various communities in the last few days in the state.
Reacting to the news, the Lagos-based pastor said: “I am deeply saddened by the loss of lives in Benue State. I cannot remain silent to the suffering of our brothers and sisters. I have witnessed first hand how each cycle of violence has claimed lives, separated families and destroyed communities.
We call on the government and all relevant authorities to act decisively in Benue state and bring the perpetrators of these needless killings to justice. We must put a stop to it.
He added: “Let us pray for the child that has been rendered fatherless. For the mother who now mourns her son. For a brother who lost a sister. For the families forced to flee from everything they once called home. Let us all pray for the healing, and the restoration of peace in Benue State.”
MEANWHILE, the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Aondona Dajoh, yesterday ordered the release of all youths arrested during recent protests across the state.
The directive was issued during an emergency plenary session convened in response to mounting public criticism over the detention of citizens who participated in demonstrations against the ongoing insecurity in parts of the state.
Speaking on the floor of the Assembly, the Speaker reaffirmed the legislature’s commitment to democratic principles and the constitutional rights of all Benue citizens.
He said: “Peaceful protest is a constitutional right. No one should be punished for exercising their voice in a democratic society.”
Dajoh also called on security agencies to respect the rights of peaceful demonstrators and ensure that future engagements with the public are carried out with professionalism and restraint.
