The convoy of Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia, faced an attack by angry youths in Ugondu community in Makurdi LGA on Wednesday.
The irate youths reportedly pelted the governor’s convoy with stones, protesting against plans to bury the late proprietor of Vaatia College, Makurdi, Engr. Michael Vaatia, within the school premises located in their community.
During Governor Alia’s visit to assess the burial preparations at Vaatia College, the protesting Ugondu youths disrupted proceedings and destroyed the grave within the school premises.
Six of the youths were subsequently arrested by the police for throwing objects at the governor’s convoy.
Governor Alia, while addressing community leaders, cautioned against actions that could lead to chaos and disunity in the state.
He urged traditional and community leaders to avoid involvement in disruptive activities, stating, “Surely, some youths arrested will make confessions, and if they mention your name, be ready to go and answer.”
The governor assured students of their safety during and after the burial, directing the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Operations to ensure peace during the wake-keep and burial scheduled for Thursday.
The controversy surrounds the burial location of the deceased proprietor, Engr. Michael Vaatia, whose interment is set to take place on Thursday.
The reconstruction of the damaged grave by the irate Ugondu youths was ongoing at the time of this report.
