NIGERIA: Benue Assembly Confronts Security Agencies Over Protest Arrests

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria 

The Benue State House of Assembly has issued a stern rebuke to security agencies in the state following the arrest of several youths who participated in protests against insecurity.

During an emergency plenary on Tuesday, Speaker Aondona Dajoh condemned what he described as the heavy-handedness of law enforcement officers in dealing with peaceful demonstrators.

The Assembly’s action signals a growing tension between the state legislature and security institutions over how civil unrest is managed in Benue.

Dajoh said the arrests were not only unjustified but also a threat to democratic values and constitutional freedoms. He insisted that the detained protesters be released immediately.

The Speaker’s comments reflect frustration among lawmakers who believe security agencies are failing in their duty to protect lives while instead turning against the people.

Civil society groups have long accused authorities of silencing dissent in the state.

This latest move by the Assembly is seen as a rare institutional pushback against growing impunity by security operatives.

The House also announced plans to probe the arrests and review security protocols for handling peaceful assemblies in the future.