It was learnt that the protesting youths, who blocked the Makurdi-Otukpo highway for more than three hours, causing traffic jam, also torched six vehicles belonging to the monarch.
Witnesses said there was tension in the area between 9am and 11am, such that vehicles quickly returned to Makurdi town following the exchange of gunfire between some security personnel and a yet-to-be identified group.
It was learnt that the protesters identified one of the traditional ruler’s sons in a recent cult clash in the vicinity, in which one person was said to have been killed.
It was also gathered that in reprisal, another young man was attacked by a rival group, and it is not yet certain if he would survive the injury sustained in the fight. It was learnt that, consequently, the protesters besieged the royal father’s residence and asked him to produce his son, who was accused of being involved in a series of alleged criminal activities in the area.
It was further learnt that the protesters went wild when it dawned on them that the monarch would not yield to their request to produce his son for questioning; hence they forced themselves into the palace to search for and arrest the young man.
The police public relations officer, Benue State command, ASP Austin Ezeani, confirmed the incident, but added that the irate youths were dispersed almost immediately while two suspects were arrested.
Meanwhile, angry mob had burnt down the palace of the Emir of Kashere Town in Gombe State."
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