Angry youths in Benue South disrupted the APC primary elections on Saturday after staging a protest along a major highway in Apa Local Government Area. Carrying placards and a symbolic coffin, the demonstrators vowed to shut down all political activities until authorities take decisive action against the persistent killings in Idoma-speaking communities.
The protesters blocked the highway, causing heavy disruption to movement and forcing the suspension of the All Progressives Congress primary exercise in the area. Chanting “No election,” the youths insisted that political activities could not continue while communities remain under constant threat of violence.
According to the demonstrators, residents of Apa Local Government Area have continued to live in fear due to repeated attacks allegedly carried out by armed herdsmen and other criminal groups. They argued that the protection of lives and property should take priority over party politics and electoral processes.
“The youths of Apa are saying no to any primary election until the insecurity situation in our land is addressed,” one protester stated.
The coffin displayed during the protest was seen as a powerful symbol of the lives lost to the ongoing violence and a message to political leaders that meaningful governance must begin with ensuring the safety and security of the people.
‘No Election Until Killings Stop’ — Youths Shut Down APC Primary With Coffin
