Dozens of women took to the streets in Benue State on Tuesday to protest the recent arrest of several youths by security operatives, demanding their immediate release and accusing law enforcement of harassment and profiling.

The protest, which took place in the Gwer West local government area, saw women clad in black chanting solidarity songs and carrying placards with messages such as “Stop Arresting Our Sons” and “We Need Justice, Not Intimidation.”

“Our children are not criminals. The police came at night and took them without explanation,” said one of the protesters, Mama Torkwase, who claimed her two nephews were among those detained.

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Police Respond, Urge Dialogue

In response, the Benue State Police Command released a statement calling for calm and assuring the public that the arrests were based on credible intelligence related to recent security threats in the area.

“We understand the concerns of the community, but we urge everyone to allow the law to take its course,” said Police Public Relations Officer SP Catherine Anene. “No innocent person will be wrongfully detained. Investigations are ongoing.”

The police also appealed to local leaders and community groups to help de-escalate tensions and avoid misinformation.

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Community Demands Transparency

While the police maintain that due process is being followed, protest leaders are demanding more transparency, including the publication of the names of those arrested and the reasons behind their detention.

Human rights groups have also begun monitoring the situation, warning that unresolved tensions between security forces and rural communities in Benue could spark further unrest.

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As the state grapples with ongoing security challenges, Tuesday’s protest highlights the fragile relationship between law enforcement and the citizens they serve — and the urgent need for trust, accountability, and communication.