The planned protest against hunger in the country on Thursday suffered a major setback in Benue State as dozens of armed troops took over the Makurdi metropolis and the environs to frustrate any form of protest.

They were backed up by men of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and officers of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) who drove around the state capital in a motorcade to forestall any breakdown of law and order.

It was observed that most residents stayed in their homes while some petrol stations did not open for fear of the unknown.

However, many people defied the protest and went on with their normal business activities as most markets opened to customers throughout the day.

The State Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Catherine Sewuese Anene, an ASP, told New Telegraph that the command had drafted all its personnel to protect lives a property.

Anene said, “Every police officer in Benue is on duty”.

Governor Hyacinth Alia had days to the protest and called on unions, groups and individuals intending to join the protest to shelve the idea, bring forth their demands and give the government a chance to look into them.

The governor said it was imperative for the planned protest to be shelved in the state and country, especially as the President Tinubu administration is trying its best to put smiles on the faces of the people.

The governor appreciated President Tinubu for his steadfast love for Benue, saying, all the projects his administration is currently executing across the state, were a result of the support the state is enjoying from the President, adding that the President places Benue highly in his plans.