Soldiers Accused of Assaulting Youth Volunteers in Benue, Sparking Outrage

Residents of Apa Local Government Area in Benue State have voiced strong indignation after reports surfaced that soldiers assaulted and disarmed youth volunteers who were mobilising to bolster community security amid ongoing attacks by suspected armed herders.

The alleged incident took place in the Adija community, a few days after three farmers were reported killed in the Ikobi community—one of several areas that have faced repeated security challenges in recent months.

Local accounts say that youth volunteers from various communities had convened in Ologo and Asaba villages to discuss security concerns and potential community protection measures.

According to witnesses, the volunteers were intercepted by soldiers while returning to their respective villages.

During the confrontation, a local vigilante commander, Olowo Otache, and his younger brother were reportedly beaten and suffered injuries.

Residents said the two men were subsequently taken to General Hospital in Ugbokpo, where they received medical attention.

The incident sparked anger among residents, leading to protests and a temporary blockade of the Otukpo–Oweto Federal Highway by youths demanding better security and greater protection for vulnerable communities.

Speaking on the matter, a youth volunteer identified as Adu Aboh said local youths had grown increasingly worried about the frequency of attacks and killings in the area.

He added that many residents feel their communities remain exposed to security threats despite repeated appeals for intervention.

Aboh further alleged that soldiers confiscated locally made firearms belonging to some volunteers during the operation.

Another resident, Energy Onoja, noted that local volunteers had previously collaborated with security agencies, particularly the police, to support community safety efforts.

He expressed concern that the latest incident could undermine local security initiatives.

Residents also highlighted growing insecurity along the Apa–Agatu corridor, where several communities have reportedly experienced attacks, displacement of residents, and destruction of livelihoods.

Ofu Adu, a resident of Ochumekwu community, alleged that security agencies were often informed before attacks occurred but that responses sometimes arrived after significant damage had been done.

The latest development has intensified calls for stronger security deployment across vulnerable communities in Apa Local Government Area.

Community leaders have appealed to the Federal Government, security agencies and the Benue State Government to strengthen protective measures, investigate the allegations and restore public confidence in security operations.

At the time of filing this report, the Nigerian military had not issued an official statement regarding the allegations.