'Seun Ibukun-Oni, Abuja
DAILY COURIER - Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State witnessed chaos yesterday as irate youths, protesting the escalating insecurity in the region, targeted the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) office. The building was set ablaze, leaving extensive damage in its wake.
According to eyewitnesses, the youths, frustrated by the incessant attacks by bandits, directed their anger at government facilities, including the INEC office in Sankara, the headquarters of Ukum Local Government Area. The incident occurred at 2 pm on Wednesday, July 3, 2024.
Although no casualties were reported, the destruction was significant. The office furniture, movable and immovable materials, including 10 electric generators, 300 ballot boxes, and 270 voting cubicles, were all destroyed in the attack.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Benue State, Professor Sam Egwu, confirmed the incident and stated that security agencies have been alerted and deployed to the area.
This violent protest highlights the growing frustration among the populace due to the persistent insecurity plaguing the region. The attack on the INEC office raises concerns about the potential disruption of electoral processes in the state.
The incident has sparked widespread condemnation, with calls for urgent action to address the security challenges facing Benue State.
