There was confusion yesterday in Makurdi, the Benue State capital and
other major towns in the state when schools and markets were shut down
following alleged plans by Fulani herdsmen to bomb Makurdi and
environs.
The news of planned protests in Makurdi also heightened the confusion.
The situation had caused panic and forced various political and civil
society organisations to announce that schools, churches and markets
should be closed.
However, the commissioner of police, Mr Adams Audu debunked the
allegation and said the command had not permitted any group to carry
out protest. He said the news that herdsmen have planned to bomb
Makurdi and other areas was not true.
A statement signed by the police spokesman, Daniel Ezeala stated that
the command have beefed up security and urged the people to go about
their normal businesses.
Several schools including Kingdom Heritage Model School, located at
Wurukum and Kids Authority Nursery School GRA and Redeemers Nursery
School all in Makurdi were locked. The Makurdi Modern Market and
Wurukum Market were also shut.
Men and women gathered at strategic points discussing the situation.
Security operatives mounted critical areas of the town, just as
artisans and roadside vendors could not open for business. Banks and
churches resumed late for operation too.
Meanwhile, commissioner for information, Mr. Justin Amase said in a
statement that state government has evolved adequate security measures
to enhance peace and protect lives and properties.
