Hoodlums unleashed mayhem in Gboko, Benue state after burning down the residence of a former Governor of Benúe State, Late Aper Aku.
The arson was said to have occurred on Monday with the occupants safely evacuated.
Deborah Aku, a daughter of the former governor told journalists in Makurdi that the Police were able to rescue six people before the hoodlums set the building ablaze.
She further explained that an incident that happened in March when a man claimed his goat died after drinking water within the building’s premises triggered a chain of events that led to Monday’s attack.
According to her, “the incident started between 7 and 8 am on Monday. They came around and didn’t talk to anyone numbering over 30. When we noticed that their visit was not friendly, we locked all the doors and called the Police.”
“Before the Police could arrive, they started destroying the house, killed our dog, broke into the pig house, and carted away with all the pigs. They also destroyed our mother’s car.
“The Police arrived and were able to rescue us out of the house. We left with the Police with only what we were putting on. While we were on our way with the Police the house was burnt with everything inside. The Police came in two trucks but the boys were many and even attacked them too.
“We are waiting for the Police to carry out their investigations. We have also reported the matter to all the relevant authorities including the governor and Speaker because this is his constituency.” she narrated.
The state’s Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), SP Catherine Anene, confirmed the incident to journalists on Tuesday in Makurdi and promised to provide further information.
Meanwhile, the Senior Special Assistant to Benue Governor on Youth Mobilisation and Empowerment, Mkeenem Moses, condemned the attack and urged the police to fish out those responsible and ensure such incidents do not happen again.
