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Tag: Benue

  • Easter: Alia declares Thursday, Friday, and Monday as work-free days in Benue

    Easter: Alia declares Thursday, Friday, and Monday as work-free days in Benue

    In recognition of the importance of the Easter Triduum to the Christian community, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has declared Thursday, Friday, and Monday as work-free days for all civil servants in the state.

    While Friday and Monday are already designated as public holidays by the federal government for Easter, Governor Alia has also declared Thursday as an additional work-free day for state workers.

    This means Benue civil servants will begin their Easter holiday on Thursday.

    Governor Alia stated that the decision is aimed at allowing civil servants to fully participate in the sacred celebrations and observances of the Easter Triduum, a period of great spiritual importance for Christians worldwide. During this time, all government offices, ministries, departments, and agencies (MDAs) will remain closed.

    Read Also: Governor Alia to convene benue security summit amid rising insecurity in Benue

    “We encourage all citizens to use this opportunity to reflect, recharge, and spend quality time with their loved ones.

    According to a statement signed by the Secretary to the state Government, SSG, Deborah Agber, said, “The Governor extended his warmest wishes to all Christians in Benue State and beyond, praying that the Easter celebrations bring joy, peace, and spiritual renewal to all.

    “May we emerge from this period of reflection and celebration rejuvenated and strengthened in our faith and service to humanity and with a determination for a greater Benue.

  • Governor Alia to convene benue security summit amid rising insecurity in Benue

    Governor Alia to convene benue security summit amid rising insecurity in Benue

    Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State has announced plans to organize a state-wide Security Summit as part of efforts to tackle the growing insecurity across the state.

    The governor made the disclosure on Saturday, April 12, 2025, during an interaction with an advisory team dispatched by the Chief of Defence Staff to assess the security challenges in the state. 

    The meeting took place at the Government House in Makurdi.

    Governor Alia noted that the state has witnessed a surge in violent attacks, particularly targeting specific local government areas, necessitating urgent and coordinated action.

    “Benue has experienced increased attacks in recent times and those are mostly coming from very specific local governments, and the heat of it all is Kwande, Ukum, Katsina-ala, Logo, and Gwer-West.

    “I am aware that Benue State is not the only state that is affected by this but I want you to know that we have suffered quite intensely, and the Benue people in those local government areas have undergone what is beyond imagination.”

    The governor further stated that his administration has held several strategic meetings with the Office of the National Security Adviser. 

    He revealed that a committee, comprising representatives from the state government and the private sector, is already working towards organizing the Benue State Security Summit. 

    In addition, he noted that the state’s Civil Protection Guards have been strengthened to support conventional security agencies in ending the ongoing killings and displacement of residents.

    “As I speak, we have a team that is working in conjunction with the state and private sector on having a Benue security summit 

    “We want to hold that first and then I’m already in talks with my colleague Governors in the North Central for us to hold a North Central Security Summit.” He added.

    Governor Alia who thanked the Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa for his efforts in ensuring that peace returns in Benue State, advised the Advisory team to extend their visit to the neighbouring states of Taraba and Nasarawa.

    “We share borders with our brothers here. I feel your visit should not just stop in Benue, let the Chief of Defence Staff extend this visit to our neighbouring states of Taraba and Nasarawa.”

    He called on the team to publicize the names of those it identified as sponsors of militia in the state, adding that something must be done immediately to restore peace in Benue.

    Earlier, the leader of the team, Air Vice Marshal Emmanuel Oche (Rtd) explained that their visit has provided an opportunity for them to interact with relevant stakeholders, listen to them and come up with the best ways of ending the increase number of killings in Benue state, stressing that they had identified non kinetic approach as the best way of handling the issue at a moment.

    Read Also: Alia distances self from Peter Obi’s visit to Benue

    While commending Governor Alia for his efforts towards restoring peace in the state, the team suggested that disarming, reintegration, and resettlement of militia in some part of the state would go a long way in solving the security challenges.

    Assisted by the Director General of the Benue Bureau of Homeland Security, Air Commodore Jacob Ayangeakaa Gbamwuan (Rtd), the team earlier visited the Tor Tiv HRM Orchivirigh Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse and the Bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina-ala Most Rev’d Isaac Dugu where they also got information about the security situation in the state.

    The team was set to also visit Zone C where they would interact with the Och’ Idoma, HRM Elaigwu Odogbo John and other stakeholders in the area.

  • Alia distances self from Peter Obi’s visit to Benue

    Alia distances self from Peter Obi’s visit to Benue

    Benue state governor, Hyacinth Alia, has distanced himself and his administration from the visit of Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, to the state.

    There have been speculations that Obi, who regularly visited Benue during the tenure of former Governor Samuel Ortom, is expected in Makurdi, the state capital, on Monday.

    Sources revealed that Obi is also scheduled to visit the Tiv paramount ruler, HRM Tor Tiv, Professor James Iorzua Ayatse, in Gboko, as well as Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in Abagena, Udei, Guma Local Government Area.

    However, in a statement released on Monday by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Kulas Tersoo, the Benue state government made it clear that it is not involved in or connected to the visit.

    The statement by reads: “The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, wishes to inform the public that he is not expecting any August visitor to the state today.

    “He is currently engaged in high-profile meetings with key state actors to discuss critical issues affecting our state.

    Read Also: Alia working to deliver good governance to Benue people, says coalition

    “Therefore, he strongly advises against any group or high profile individual(s) attempting to enter the state for any kind of visit that may generate political assemblies without prior approval.

    “For anyone considering a visit to Benue State without the Governor’s knowledge, it is imperative to reconsider such plans, as the safety and security of individuals in this regard cannot be guaranteed.

    “Also the public is to note that all individuals or groups intending to visit IDPs in Benue State must first seek and obtain written permission from Benue State Emergency Management Agency (BSEMA).

    “We urge security agents and the public to take note of this announcement and maintain peace and order in the state.”

  • Police rescue 14 kidnapped passengers in Benue

    Police rescue 14 kidnapped passengers in Benue

    The Benue Police Command said it rescued 14 out of the 18 passengers kidnapped on Thursday in Ikobi, near Benue Burnt Brick  Otukpo town in Benue state.

    A statement by the Police Public Relations Officer,PPRO,CSP Sewuese Aneene, said one passenger has been confirmed dead ,bringing the  total of those who died in the unfortunate incident  to four .

    The driver of the vehicle Samuel Agege was shot and killed at the spot before the passengers were taken into thick forest.

    The Nation learnt gunmen opened fire on a 18- passenger seater bus belonging to Benue Links Nigeria Limited, a state owned transport company on Thursday. 

    The PPRO said: ” A team launched a search for the kidnapped victims within the nearby forest immediately. On 4/4/2025 at about 1500hrs they sighted the bandits in the forest and  engaged them in a gun duel.

    Read Also: Lagosians commend police on security, demand better welfare for operatives 

    “The superior fire power of the police subdued them and they took to their heels abandoning their captives. 

    “Unfortunately, they had inflicted matchet cuts on two of the victims before the rescue. 

    “Fourteen (14)    victims were rescued and taken to the hospital where one was confirmed dead and others are currently receiving treatment.

    “The Commissioner of Police, Benue state command, CP. Steve H. Yabanet FCID, psc (+) commiserates with families of the three passengers that lost their lives in this dastardly incident and pledge his commitment to bring perpetuators to book.

    “He enjoins the good people of Otukpo to look out for suspects with gunshot injuries and report to the police  as many of these bandits received gunshot injuries during the exchange of fire.”

  • Three killed, many kidnapped in Benue bus attack

    Three killed, many kidnapped in Benue bus attack

    Hoodlums, Thursday, attacked a commercial bus belonging to Benue Links Nigeria Limited, killing three passengers and kidnapping an unspecified number of persons said to be travelling towards the East on Thursday.

    A child of between 5 and 7 was said to have been abandoned by the kidnappers, while the driver of the 18-seater bus, Samuel Agege, was shot dead at the spot.

    The incident took place on Makurdi-Enugu highway, at a place called Ikobi, near Benue Burnt Bricks Company in Otukpo, on Thursday.

    Read Also: Lagosians commend police on security, demand better welfare for operatives

    The Information Officer of Benue Links Nigeria Limited, Mr. Johnson Ehi Daniel, confirmed the incident and said the company is collaborating with security agencies to secure the release of those kidnapped and appealed for calm.

    Daniel also said three passengers managed to escape.

    “The management of Benue Links Nigeria Limited extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and stands in solidarity with those whose loved ones remain in captivity. We assure the general public that we are in constant communication with security agencies who are making concerted efforts to rescue the abducted passengers.”

    The Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Kate Aneene, confirmed the incident and said more details would be provided.

  • JUST IN: Three feared killed, many kidnapped in Benue bus attack

    JUST IN: Three feared killed, many kidnapped in Benue bus attack

    Hoodlums have attacked a commercial bus belonging to Benue Links Nigeria Limited, killing three passengers and kidnapping an unspecified number of others. 

    The attack occurred on Thursday along the Makurdi-Enugu highway, near Ikobi, close to the Benue Burnt Bricks company in Otukpo, Benue State.

    The assailants shot and killed the bus driver, Samuel Agege, at the scene, while a child between the ages of 5 and 7 was reportedly abandoned by the kidnappers. 

    Read Also: Gunmen kill two, abduct 12 passengers in Benue

    Three passengers managed to escape the attack, according to the company’s information officer, Mr. Johnson Ehi Daniel.

    Daniel confirmed the incident, stating that the company is working closely with security agencies to secure the release of the kidnapped passengers and appealed for calm.

    “The management of Benue Links Nigeria Limited extends its deepest condolences to the families of the deceased and stands in solidarity with those whose loved ones remain in captivity. We assure the general public that we are in constant communication with security agencies, who are making concerted efforts to rescue the abducted passengers,” Daniel said.

    Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, CSP Kate Aneene, also confirmed the incident and assured that more details would be provided soon.

  • FG flags-off three projects to boost water supply in Benue

    FG flags-off three projects to boost water supply in Benue

    The Federal Government, through the Ministry of Water Resources and Sanitation, has inaugurated three critical water supply projects in Benue State as part of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. 

    The projects which include rehabilitation and upgrading of the Buruku-Gboko Water Supply Project, Rehabilitation and Improvement of the Wannune Water Supply Project, and Construction of the Ugbema Water Supply Project are aimed at expanding access to potable water, improving public health, and mitigating the prevalence of waterborne diseases in the state.

    Speaking at the inauguration ceremony in Gboko, Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Joseph Terlumun Utsev, underscored the government’s commitment to sustainable water infrastructure.

    “These projects are not just about water supply; they are about transforming lives. Access to clean water is fundamental to health, economic growth, and social development. With these projects, we are ensuring that residents of Buruku, Gboko, Mkar, Ugbema, Wannune, and surrounding communities no longer suffer from inadequate water supply,” Utsev stated.

    “The  Buruku-Gboko Water Supply Scheme seeks to rehabilitate vandalized infrastructure and restore potable water to over 506,000 residents. The project involves drawing water from the Katsina Ala River, treating it, and distributing it across key communities”, he added.

    Read Also: Petitioners ask Reps to take over legislative duties in Benue, Zamfara

    Utsev revealed the ₦18.89 billion project was approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC) and awarded to Messrs Ceylon Construction Services Limited with an estimated completion timeline of 18 months.

    “The rehabilitation of the Gboko Water Intake and Treatment Plant includes modern pumping systems adaptable to solar power, restoration of the 7km transmission main, and installation of a 150m³/hr Package Water Treatment Plant at Buruku station. These will collectively enhance efficiency and reliability,” he explained.

    Benue Governor, Hyacinth Alia, represented by Deputy Governor Barr. Sam Ode, hailed the initiative, describing it as a long-overdue intervention that would significantly improve the well-being of Benue residents.

    “This project is a testament to President Tinubu’s commitment to the welfare of Nigerians. 

    “Water is life, and this administration has demonstrated that it prioritizes the needs of the people. We must work together to ensure the sustainability of these projects,” Ode remarked.

    The Ugbema Water Supply Project involves the construction of five standalone solar-powered boreholes with fetching points and lighting, four industrial solar-powered boreholes, a 200m³ Braithwaite surface tank, a 150m³ elevated tank on a 12m stand, and a 50m³/hr treatment plant.

    The Wannune Water Supply Project consists of four industrial solar-powered boreholes, each with a 100m³ elevated steel-welded tank, a mini treatment plant, power connections, and solar lighting to enhance functionality.

  • Petitioners ask Reps to take over legislative duties in Benue, Zamfara

    Petitioners ask Reps to take over legislative duties in Benue, Zamfara

    A petition endorsed by over 200 young lawyers asking the National Assembly to take over the legislative functions of Benue and Zamfara state Houses of Assembly was yesterday laid before the House of Representatives.

    Deputy House spokesperson Philip Agbese, who presented the bill, said there was a need for the House to save democracy in the country.

    Giving a synopsis of the petition, the lawmaker drew the attention of the House  to  the suspension of  14 members of the Benue  House of Assembly with the help of ‘’external forces.’’

    He also made reference to Zamfara State where 10 members of the House were suspended.   

    “I bring to your attention a distressing petition received in my office, highlighting the precarious situation in Benue and Zamfara states.

    Read Also: FULL LIST: Locations of Lagos speed limit monitors to avoid N50,000 fine

    ‘’The petition, endorsed by over 200 lawyers, fervently urges the House of Representatives to take immediate and decisive action to safeguard democracy in Nigeria.

    “ If we continue to remain passive, we risk perpetually ceding our constitutional responsibilities to the Executive, thereby reducing our role to mere rubber-stamping.

    “The alarming developments in Benue and Zamfara states, characterised by rampant impunity, anarchy, and lawlessness, as well as a blatant attempt to usurp the powers of a coordinate arm of government, demand our prompt and decisive intervention.

    “The petitioners are, therefore, praying the House, after its investigation, to invoke Section 11(4) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended) to urgently take over the functions of the Benue State House of Assembly and the Zamfara State House of Assembly respectively, to restore constitutional order, upholding the rule of law, and ensuring the protection of fundamental human rights in the affected states.

    “Mr Speaker, time is of the essence. I urge you to treat this matter with the utmost urgency and gravity it deserves.’’   

    Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu, who presided over plenary in the absence of Speaker Abbas Tajudeen, referred the petition to the House Committee on Public Petition.

  • Inspector dies as police kill 12 bandits in Benue gun duel

    Inspector dies as police kill 12 bandits in Benue gun duel

    Operatives of the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) in Benue Command have killed 12 bandits during a gun battle.

    During the operation, one Inspector Terfa Anyiatse died from gunshot injuries. 

    Further raids conducted around Daudu and Makurdi resulted in the recovery of seven locally made pistols, 3 AK-47 rifles, the arrest of five suspected robbers and 32 suspected cultists.

    A statement on Thursday by the Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi said: “In line with the directive of the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM., for all state commands to implement action plans aimed at minimizing crime, several police commands across the country have intensified efforts towards this goal, curbing the persistence of various violent crimes, including robbery, kidnapping and banditry. The Benue State Police Command, through its Operation Zenda Joint Task Force, has undertaken a series of raids across the state that are part of a concerted effort to combat criminal activities and enhance public safety. 

    Read Also: Court orders substituted service on Benue governor in Chief Judge’s suit

    “On March 19, 2025, at about 2 AM, Operatives of the Taskforce encountered an ambush set by armed bandits while en route to a discovered criminal hideout in Agwabi, Tombo Ward, Buruku Local Government Area. A fierce gun duel ensued, during which the police operatives responded with superior firepower, successfully subduing the gang. After the exchange, 12 bandits were neutralized, while others escaped. Tragically, during this operation, one member of the police team, Inspector Terfa Anyiatse sustained fatal gunshot injury, and eventually gave up the ghost.

    “The IGP commends the bravery and dedication of the operatives involved in the operation, highlighting their commitment to ensuring the safety of our communities, and extends heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the fallen officer, praying for the repose of his soul. The Force remains resolute in its mission to combat crime and ensure the safety of all citizens. Members of the public are urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police and other law enforcement agencies”.

  • Arson in Benue over killing of five

    Arson in Benue over killing of five

    • Protesters burn council secretariat, senator’s hotel,  palace, others over gunmen attacks
    • Police deploy men

    Youths of Naka town, Gwer West Local Government, yesterday protested against the insecurity in the community, following attacks by suspected herdsmen on Gyaruwa community where five persons were killed on Tuesday night.

     They set ablaze the Gwer West Local Government Secretariat in Naka.

    A  hotel linked to the senator Representing Benue Northwest Senatorial Zone, Chief Titus Zam, as well as the palace of the monarch of Gwer West, Chief Daniel Abomtse, some vehicles were set on fire.

    The state Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Kate Aneene, confirmed the protest and said the Commissioner of Police was on his way to Naka, with his tactical team .

    The Nation learnt that troops deployed shot three protesters who are receiving treatment in the hospital.

    Governor Hyacinth Alia condemned the burning of the secretariat, and palace.

    In a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Mr Tersoo Kula, Alia also condemned the attack and murder of three members of  the Civil Protection Guards at On-MbaAondo, Tsambe-Mbesev ward of Gwer-West Local Government Area.

    He stated that the inhuman act, carried out by bandits, was once more, an affront to the peace and security of communities.

    Read Also: Tinubu urges Senate to confirm NCoS CG, CBN board member, four RECs

    “We appreciate the deep rage and frustration that has led to the anxiety at Naka, the headquarters of Gwer West, including the regrettable burning of the secretariat and  palace of Ter Nagi by protesters.

    “While we empathise with the sentiments of our people, we advocate restraint and foresight in funneling this anger.

    “Destruction of our own worths, simply serves to frustrate the intentions of our government, which is devoted to building up peace and security in the state.

    “We request security organs to intensify efforts in detecting and capturing perpetrators of this heinous atrocity. It is essential that these marauding bandits are forced to deal with the full wrath of the law.