Following the recent skirmishes by some youths who took advantage of the present security challenge in Benue to perpetrate crime and throw the public into panic, business activities were seen at lowest ebb in Makurdi on Monday.
BusinessesDay observed that major markets in Makurdi such as Wurukum, Modern Market, High Level and North Bank were partially opened while Wadata Market which is the flash point of the disturbances was totally closed.
Also most shops, super markets and grocery stores along major roads and some settlements in Makurdi and its environs were closed while both vehicular and human movements were slowed as residents appeared to be in living in fear of the uncertain security atmosphere.
There are already serious concerns that heightening insecurity in the food-rich state and its environments could jeopardize the country’s already fragile economy.
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Meanwhile, Benue Police command said it has arrested 59 persons in connection with the recent cult-related crises in some parts of Makurdi which left several people were injured and property worth millions of Naira destroyed during the crisis.
Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) Benue state Police Command, Moses Yamu, made the disclosure in an interview in Makurdi.
Yamu said the command has already deployed additional personnel to the affected parts of the town to restore peace and order as well as to check the spread of the crisis.
He said the arrested suspects would be charged to court as soon as investigations were concluded and advised Makurdi residents not to panic as security operatives were in control of the situation.
Security operatives were patrolling the streets of Makurdi to prevent further break down of law and order but shops and other business places however, remained closed in the affected area.
JAMES KWEN, MAKURDI
