The Benue State community is in deep mourning and outrage following the tragic death of Ben Agir Une, a serving National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) member, who was allegedly beaten to death by a local vigilante group on Sunday night, April 19, 2026.
The incident, which occurred between 11 p.m. and midnight at the Mbajor settlement in Buruku Local Government Area (LGA), has led to the immediate disbandment of all vigilante activities in the region.
The Fatal Mistake
Details surrounding the tragedy highlight a devastating case of mistaken identity and extrajudicial violence:
- The Allegation: Ben Agir was stopped by the vigilante group during a night patrol on suspicion of being a motorcycle thief.
- Denied Identification: According to the Chairman of Buruku LGA, Raymond Aondoakura, the vigilantes did not give the victim time to identify himself. When he attempted to present his NYSC ID card, one of the group leaders reportedly accused him of lying and began the assault.
- Beaten to a Coma: The attack was so severe that Agir was beaten into a coma. Realizing the gravity of the situation, the group eventually rushed him to a nearby hospital, where he was confirmed dead.
- A Life Cut Short: Agir, an indigene of Tongov in Katsina-Ala LGA, was reportedly serving in Gombe State and was home on a short break. He was expected to complete his service and participate in the Passing Out Parade (POP) next month.
Immediate State Response
Authorities have moved swiftly to address the public outcry:
- Mass Arrests: All vigilante members involved in the incident have been arrested and handed over to the Benue State Police Command for investigation and prosecution.
- Vigilante Disbandment: Chairman Aondoakura has officially suspended all local vigilante activities in Buruku LGA, stating that they will remain disbanded until strict regulations are put in place to govern their conduct.
- NYSC Statement: The NYSC spokesperson in Benue, Veronica Ogwuche, confirmed that while he was not serving in Benue State, preliminary findings suggest he was a serving corps member in Gombe.
