Agatu Youths Demand Military Withdrawal Over Insecurity, Cite Loss of Confidence

The Agatu Indigenous Youth Association (AIYA) has voiced strong dissatisfaction with the performance of the military's Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS) in the Agatu Local Government Area of Benue state, Nigeria. The youth group is calling for the immediate withdrawal of these troops, alleging a severe lapse in their protective duties and a failure to respond effectively to critical security intelligence.

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Our people no longer feel safe under the protection of the military, and we have lost total trust in their ability and willingness to secure our lives and property.

In a formal petition addressed to the OPWS Commandant, the AIYA articulated a profound loss of faith in the military's capacity and willingness to secure the lives and properties of the local populace. Concerns were specifically raised about the conduct of the local unit commander, with allegations of inaction, lack of proactive security measures, and even intimidation of local youths. The petition paints a grim picture, stating, "Our people no longer feel safe under the protection of the military, and we have lost total trust in their ability and willingness to secure our lives and property."

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We fear that we may wake up one day and be killed by the same people we believe are protecting us.

The youth association further detailed instances where they claim the military failed to act on prior intelligence reports, leading to fatal attacks on communities like Odugbeho on May 2, 2026. They also allege that military personnel were present but did not intervene during a recent attack on Olegabulu community. These alleged failures, coupled with claims that patrols only occur when residents provide logistical support, have eroded any remaining confidence.

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there are no security patrols, except when contacted. When contacted, personnel allegedly start demanding for fueling, and even when fuel is provided, they move to the affected area at their own will and time.

Seeking a return to what they perceive as a more secure period, the AIYA is advocating for the deployment of Mobile Police officers to replace the military. They argue that the area experienced better security between 2013 and 2017 when Mobile Police were stationed there, suggesting a potential compromise within the current military presence. This demand reflects a deep-seated frustration and a desperate plea for effective security solutions in a region plagued by persistent insecurity.

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despite intelligence reports warning of an impending attack, no security personnel were deployed to the area. Yet there was no security presence deployed, and four persons were killed in that attack.