January 6, 2014

BREAKING NEWS: 65 houses razed, scores injured as PDP supporters clash in Benue

ABOUT 65 houses were razed,
yesterday, rendering many
homeless with others injured
as People's Democratic Party,
PDP, supporters clashed in
Loko, Katsina-Ala Local
Government Area of Benue
State.

The latest crisis in Katsina-Ala is
coming on the heels of moves by
the people of Loko and PDP to
recall Mrs Hembadon Amena
representing Katsina-Ala West
constituency in Benue State
House of Assembly over alleged
anti-party activities.

Vanguard gathered from an
eyewitness, who preferred
anonymity, that crisis erupted
"when a supporter of the
embattled lawmaker, Mr.
Shiaondo Ukor, who is chairman
of Motorcycle Hirers Association
at the Daudu unit, allegedly
accosted one Teryange, a
commercial motorcycle rider and
his employee.

"Ukor asked him to hand over the
keys of his motorbike to him on
the ground that he (Teryange)
disrespected him by joining
forces with some people to
unseat Mrs. Amena.

"As the two argued to a point of
exchanging blows, they attracted
the attention of passers-by who
joined the fray and the fight
escalated."

According to the source, Mr. Ukor
was alleged to have moved with
his supporters to the home of the
youth leader of Ugber Mr.
Aondoaseer Ornguze and razed
down his house after beating up
his family members.

The source said: "His action
sparked a reprisal attack and
further escalation of the fighting
and burning down of the houses
of notable and vocal members of
the party in the area.

"The fighting is still on with many
persons injured, while over 65
houses have been razed already,
as I speak to you."
:
When contacted, the Police Public
Relations Officer, PPRO, Deputy
Superintendent, DSP, Daniel
Ezeala, said he had received
reports on the razing of thatched
houses in the affected area last
night, adding that he was still
waiting for full details of the
crisis.

On her part, Mrs. Amena
confirmed the story, saying the
trouble was caused by those who
wanted to recall her for no just
cause.

She said the matter had been
reported to the Police in Katsina-
Ala and Makurdi.