65 Houses Razed, Scores Injured As PDP Supporters Clash In Benue

 

Many were yesterday rendered homeless while others sustained varying degrees of injury as People’s Democratic Party, PDP, supporters clashed in Loko, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State, setting about 65 houses ablaze.

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.

According to an eyewitness, who spoke to Vanguard on condition of anonymity, 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 added: “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.