Movement along the Yelwata section of the Benue–Nasarawa highway came to a halt on Wednesday as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) blocked the road in protest.
The protesters, who are victims of repeated attacks by suspected herdsmen, demanded an immediate return to their ancestral homes. Shouting “We want to go back home,” they blocked both lanes of the busy highway for several hours, leaving hundreds of motorists and commuters stranded.
Eyewitnesses said the protesters were mainly IDPs who have spent years living in overcrowded camps, with no clear plan from the government for their resettlement.
“We have suffered enough. We want to return to our homes and farms,” one protester said.
The demonstration reflects growing anger among displaced persons who say the government has failed to restore peace and security to their communities.
Security forces were deployed to the scene to prevent the protest from turning violent. As of press time, tensions remained high but under control.
Benue State has witnessed several deadly attacks on farming communities over the years, mostly linked to herdsmen-farmer conflicts. Thousands have been displaced, with many living in IDP camps under difficult conditions. Despite repeated calls, many IDPs are yet to be resettled, leading to frustration and public outcry.