Benue youths sue for calm over death of suspected cult leader

Youths of Apa Local Government Area in Benue State have called on community members to remain calm in the face of the ongoing military actions in the area, following the recent spate of kidnappings and killings by gunmen.

Operating under the banner of the Apa Youths Progressive Vanguard, the youth group, in a statement signed by its National President, John Odaudu, and National Secretary, Sunday Ebo, acknowledged the recent arrests and neutralisation of kidnappers, cultists, and other suspects as a significant step towards restoring peace in the area.

The youth group also praised the commander and troops of Operation Whirl Stroke, along with other security agencies, for their intensified operations aimed at ridding the region of criminal elements.

They specifically addressed concerns over the death of Ochowechi Ernest Owoicho, a suspected cult leader. “Independent investigations by our team indicate that the deceased was a sickle cell patient and showed no signs of physical torture. The military adhered strictly to the rules of engagement,” the statement noted.

The youth body called on the public to remain calm and continue supporting ongoing security operations, stating that the troops have demonstrated professionalism and focus in targeting verified criminal elements.

“We make bold to state that Operation Whirl Stroke, in all its operational outings, does not detract from the standard operating procedure, rules of engagement, and other manuals issued by the Armed Forces of Nigeria in the prosecution of armed conflicts,”; the group stated.

They warned against attempts by “misguided individuals” to discredit the military through allegations of human rights abuses, describing such campaigns as efforts to undermine the progress made in securing the area.

While expressing regret over the incident involving Owoicho, the youth group urged the community to recognise the broader goal of restoring peace and protecting lives and property.

The statement further disclosed that many kidnappers along the Apa/Agatu axis have been either neutralised or arrested, with others fleeing due to the sustained pressure from security forces.