Popular social media critic, VeryDarkMan, has challenged youths in Benue State to channel their ability to mobilise against political figures into fighting the insecurity threatening their communities.
VeryDarkMan made the call while reacting to the disruption of the movement of 2027 presidential hopeful, Peter Obi, during his recent visit to the state.
In a video shared on his social media platforms, the social commentator said he was initially impressed by the number of youths who came out during the incident.
He said the development showed that Benue youths had the capacity to mobilise in large numbers when they were determined to achieve a goal.
However, he said he became concerned after considering what the youths could achieve if the same energy was deployed to demand an end to killings and attacks across the state.
“If Benue youths can come out in numbers to chase somebody, tomorrow when bandits or terrorists attack, we know say una get squad wey sabi chase,” he said.
VeryDarkMan said it was painful that youths who had experienced years of insecurity, including attacks on farmers and killings, could be mobilised for political activities.
He recalled the protests that followed the Yelewata massacre, alleging that residents who took to the streets to demand an end to the killings were dispersed with tear gas.
According to him, the situation raised questions about why the same level of mobilisation was not being seen when communities were under attack or residents were demanding accountability from the government.
He also accused politicians of taking advantage of the frustrations of Benue youths for political gains while failing to adequately address the security challenges confronting the state.
VeryDarkMan urged the youths not to allow themselves be used in political battles between rival political camps.
He said the controversy surrounding Obi’s visit should serve as a wake-up call for young people in the state to recognise the power they possess when they act collectively.
“I nearly cried when I watched that video. I was looking at it like, ‘ Is this my Benue people?” he said.
He urged the youths to redirect their collective strength towards demanding better security, good governance and protection for their communities.
