Confusion reigned supreme on Monday, March 16, 2014 in Makurdi, the Benue State capital and other prominent towns in the state when schools and markets were shut down following unconfirmed reports suggesting that some Fulani herdsmen had perfected plans to bomb Makurdi and its environs.
News of planned protests in Makurdi also heightened the confusion.
The situation had caused panic and forced various political and civil society organisations to announce that schools, churches and markets should be closed.
However, the commissioner of police, Mr Adams Audu debunked the allegation and said the command had not permitted any group to carry out any protest.
He said the news that herdsmen have planned to bomb Makurdi and other areas was untrue.
A statement signed by the police spokesman, Daniel Ezeala stated that the command have beefed up security and urged the people to carry on with their normal businesses.
Several schools including Kingdom Heritage Model School, located at Wurukum and Kids Authority Nursery School GRA and Redeemers Nursery School all in Makurdi were locked.
The Makurdi Modern Market and Wurukum Market were also shut.
Some men and women gathered at strategic points discussing the situation. Security operatives mounted critical areas of the town, just as artisans and roadside vendors could not open for business.
Banks and churches resumed late for operation too.
Meanwhile, commissioner for information, Mr. Justin Amase said in a statement that state government has evolved adequate security measures to enhance peace and protect lives and properties.
