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A shocking incident has rocked the Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State, where families of victims and the Traditional Council have united to demand justice and a staggering ₦50 billion in compensation following alleged brutality by the Nigerian Army. The call for action comes after a petition was submitted to the Chief of Army Staff in Abuja on Monday, spearheaded by legal counsel Professor Sebastine Hon (SAN).
According to the petition, troops reportedly opened fire without provocation on locals returning from a funeral in Jato-Aka, Kwande LGA. The attack allegedly resulted in several deaths and injuries, including among students of ATM Secondary School. Professor Hon expressed deep dismay, noting that soldiers, whose duty is to protect citizens from terrorists and criminals, have now turned their weapons on innocent villagers.
The petition not only demands an immediate end to what is described as the unconstitutional actions of soldiers deployed in the area but also urges the Nigerian Army to accept full responsibility for the conduct of its personnel. The affected families are seeking compensation for lives lost and injuries sustained during the incident.
As of the time of filing this report, the Nigerian Army has yet to issue an official response to the allegations. The incident has sparked outrage and raised serious questions about the conduct of military personnel in the region. The families and local leaders await a formal acknowledgment and action from the authorities.
Stay tuned for further updates as the situation develops.
