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A wave of tension has swept through the Jato Aka community in Kwande Local Government Area of Benue State following a disturbing incident reported on Monday afternoon. According to eyewitnesses, soldiers opened fire on mourners returning from the burial of Chief Hanave Laha, a kindred head in the Yaav Council Ward, Turan District, in what has been described as an unprovoked and serious violation of human rights.
The violence left a student from Government Science Secondary School, Jato Aka, identified as Lorfa, with gunshot injuries. The bullet, which first struck another victim, Mr. Lorsuur, pierced through his body before injuring the student. Lorfa is currently receiving treatment at NKST General Hospital in Jato Aka. Meanwhile, residents allege that soldiers removed Mr. Lorsuur’s body to an undisclosed location, fueling further outrage and fear.
The incident has plunged the town into panic, forcing schools and businesses to shut down. Heavily armed soldiers patrolling the area in gun trucks have heightened the sense of unease among residents. Community leaders have urgently appealed to both state and federal governments to intervene and restore calm. The matter has been reported to the Kwande Local Government Chairman, Hon. Neji, and the President-General of the Kwande United People’s Organization (KWUPO), Comrade Aloko Nachi Simon.
As the community grapples with this tragedy, calls for justice and a thorough investigation continue to grow. This incident serves as a stark reminder of the fragile security situation in the region, leaving many to wonder about the steps that will be taken to prevent further escalation.
Reported by Tyover Solomon
