Prominent voices in Benue State have raised alarm over the reported arrest and prolonged detention of several Idoma youths and traditional rulers in Otukpo and Makurdi.
Barr. Aida Nath Ogwuche, in a detailed statement, described the situation as troubling and unacceptable, particularly the detention of an elderly man over 80 years old who is reportedly in critical condition. She condemned the killing of Ador, Chairman of Benue MACBAN, as tragic and called for justice for his family while expressing concern for the detainees, some of whom are NECO examination candidates at risk of missing their papers.
Ogwuche mandated Barr. Idoko Dino Godwin to pursue legal steps for the release of innocent detainees and urged the Benue State Government, the Commissioner of Police, and relevant authorities to review the detentions urgently. She emphasized that justice must follow due process and respect fundamental rights, warning against arbitrary detention.
Other commentators, including Tivta Samuel Aondohemba, echoed calls for equal application of justice across all ethnic groups in the state, questioning perceived selective urgency in investigations compared to other violent incidents involving Fulani attackers.
The matter has sparked discussions on the need for fairness, rule of law, and balanced security responses in addressing crime and violence in Benue State. No official confirmation from security agencies has been detailed in the circulating posts.
