BREAKING NEWS: 65 houses razed, scores injured as PDP supporters clash in Benue

ABOUT 65 houses were razed, yesterday, rendering
many homeless with others injured as People's
Democratic Party, PDP, supporters clashed in Loko,
Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of Benue State.
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.
Vanguard gathered from an eyewitness, who
preferred anonymity, that 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 said: "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.
On her part, Mrs. Amena confirmed the story, saying
the trouble was caused by those who wanted to
recall her for no just cause.
She said the matter had been reported to the Police
in Katsina-Ala and Makurdi.