Angry youths in Benue South on Saturday staged a protest during the ongoing All Progressives Congress, APC, primary elections, demanding an end to the persistent killings in parts of the Idoma-speaking area.
The protesters barricaded a major highway in Apa Local Government Area, disrupting movement and political activities in the area.
Carrying a coffin and placards with various inscriptions, the youths chanted “No election” and insisted that no political exercise should take place while insecurity continues to claim lives in the community.
According to the demonstrators, the worsening security situation in Apa Local Government Area has left residents living in fear, with many communities repeatedly attacked by suspected armed herdsmen and criminal elements.
The protesters maintained that political leaders must prioritise the protection of lives and property before embarking on party primaries and other political activities.
“The youths of Apa are saying no to any primary election until the insecurity situation in our land is addressed,” one of the protesters said.