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Tag: Makurdi

  • Five cultists, bandit killed in Makurdi

    Five cultists, bandit killed in Makurdi

     Three persons were killed yesterday during a suspected cult clash in Wurukum, Makurdi, the Benue State capital.

    The deceased are Mr Hundred, Martins Dagba (aka Wonder) and Aondoaseer Yisa (aka Poka).

    In a separate operation earlier the same day, operatives of the Jato-Aka Division responded to a clash between two rival cult groups, identified as Red and Black, which left two persons dead and several others injured.

    Chairman of Makurdi Local Government, Joseph Keffi, condemned the killings.

    Addressing the communities where the clash took place, the Special Adviser to the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government on Security and Political Matters,Terhide Beetseh Mark, extended its condolences to the bereaved families and communities mourning their loved ones.

    He assured them of the chairman’s firm commitment to ensuring peace within the region. He stated that the local government is working with security agencies and stakeholders to intensify efforts aimed at strengthening security across the local government.

    He further emphasised the  chairman’s commitment to rebuilding communities, enhancing security, and promoting sustainable development across the local government.

    Benue Police Command has confirmed the incident and said investigation has started.

    Also, the Police Command has confirmed the killing of a notorious bandit during a gun battle with operatives in Ukum Local Government Area, following an attempted kidnapping.

    In a statement yesterday, the Police Public Relations Officer, Deputy Superintendent of Police Udeme Edet, said the incident occurred about 11:43 a.m.,on Wednesday, after a report that some bandits had been sighted around Channel Two, Zaki-Biam, with plans to abduct a hotelier.

    Operatives attached to the Ukum Division were deployed to the location, the statement said, adding that the bandits opened fire on the patrol team upon, prompting a gun duel.

    “The police responded with superior firepower, during which one of the bandits sustained gunshot injuries,” the statement said.

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    Items recovered from the suspect included a local Beretta pistol, two rounds of live 9mm ammunition, and a bag of charms.

    The injured suspect was rushed to the General Hospital in Zaki-Biam, where he was confirmed dead.

    The deceased was later identified as Terkaa Samuel, described as a notorious bandit from Jandekyula in Wukari Local Government Area of Taraba State.

    The police said additional patrol and tactical teams had been deployed to the surrounding areas to track down other bandits who escaped during the encounter, some of whom may have sustained gunshot wounds.

    Eight suspects were arrested in connection with the violence, while items recovered include a local pistol, an expended cartridge, two axes, and two machetes. The injured victims were taken to nearby medical facilities for treatment.

    The state Commissioner of Police, Ifeanyi Emenari, reassured residents of the command’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property.

  • Why Makurdi needs air connectivity

    Why Makurdi needs air connectivity

    Sir: Nigeria’s aviation industry has grown significantly over the last two decades, with remarkable improvements in flight safety, fleet expansion, and passenger traffic. Yet, a persistent limitation remains: the overwhelming concentration of flight connectivity around Lagos and Abuja. Almost all domestic commercial routes are structured as spokes leading into either of these two hubs—Port Harcourt to Lagos or Abuja, Uyo to Abuja or Lagos, Asaba to Lagos or Abuja, Enugu to Lagos or Abuja, Owerri to Lagos or Abuja, Yola to Abuja, Kano to Abuja, Benin to Abuja or Lagos, and so forth. Rarely do we find direct intercity connections outside this Lagos–Abuja loop.

    This hub-and-spoke model constrains regional development. To accelerate Nigeria’s commercial and economic growth, transportation connectivity—road, rail, and air—must expand in an integrated manner. While railway and road projects are ongoing and commendable, Nigeria needs to revisit and redraw its air transportation graph (having a closed or connected graph in focus).

    Makurdi, the Benue State capital, stands at the confluence of strategic advantages that justify a vibrant commercial aviation presence. It lies at the heart of Nigeria’s middle belt, serving as a natural gateway to parts of Cross River, Enugu, Kogi, Nasarawa, and Taraba states. Many of these regions are far from their state capitals or commercial hubs. Additionally, parts of neighbouring Cameroon could become accessible through Makurdi flights, opening cross-border trade and tourism opportunities.

    The Alia administration has embarked on repositioning Benue as a preferred investment destination. To attract and sustain investor confidence, critical infrastructure—airports, five-star international hotels, and modern conference facilities—must be provided. Investors and tourists alike seek convenience. The perception that “Benue is accessible” can be a game-changer.

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    Benue is Nigeria’s food basket. A commercial airport with a dedicated cargo terminal would enable the rapid evacuation of perishable agricultural produce to local and international markets. This will reduce post-harvest losses, expand agribusiness, and create jobs in storage, logistics, and export services.

    With five universities (two federal, two state, and one private), several polytechnics, and colleges of education, Benue hosts one of the densest clusters of tertiary institutions in Nigeria. Air connectivity would enhance academic collaborations, attract national and international conferences, and support student and staff mobility.

    Benue has untapped tourism potential—from River Benue’s scenic views to cultural festivals and historic sites. Accessibility by air would unlock these assets, positioning Makurdi as a weekend destination for both domestic and international tourists.

    A functional commercial airport strengthens regional security architecture and emergency response capability, including medical evacuations, disaster response, and rapid deployment of humanitarian aid when needed.

    Governor Alia’s administration does not need to carry this project alone. A range of funding options can be explored.  One model is where the state provides land and enabling regulatory environment, while private investors finance and manage infrastructure, with revenue-sharing agreements. This is already working in other Nigerian states with concessioned airports.

    Rather than building from scratch immediately, Benue State can negotiate a cooperative agreement with the Nigerian Air Force (current custodian of Makurdi airport) for dual civil-military use. Several states worldwide operate this model efficiently.

    Institutions like the African Development Bank (AfDB), African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank), and the Infrastructure Corporation of Nigeria (InfraCorp) can co-fund aviation infrastructure tied to

    Since one of the strongest cases for Makurdi Airport is agribusiness, Benue State can float export-linked infrastructure bonds, repayable from cargo handling fees and export tariffs.

    Instead of outright purchase, the state (with private equity partners) can lease mid-sized aircraft to operate as a Benue-based airline. This lowers entry costs while testing market viability.

    Airlines and hotels often co-invest in destinations. The state could attract hospitality investors by offering land concessions near the airport for hotel and conference centre development.

    Air connectivity is not just about moving people; it is about moving ideas, investments, and opportunities. Makurdi deserves a place on Nigeria’s aviation map—not as a luxury, but as an economic necessity. The Alia administration should seize this moment to negotiate partnerships, mobilize funds, and launch a bold aviation agenda that makes Benue the heartbeat of Nigeria’s central air corridor.

    Benue is setting a new narrative of bold, inclusive development. Air connectivity must be part of that story.

    •Leonard Karshima Shilgba <shilgba@gmail.com>

  • JUST IN: Youths protest in Makurdi over killings in Benue communities

    JUST IN: Youths protest in Makurdi over killings in Benue communities

    Youths in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, stormed the streets on Sunday to protest the recent killings in Yelewata, Saidu, and other communities across the state.

    The demonstrators, dressed in black and carrying banners, leaves, and placards, began their protest as early as 7 a.m. at the main gate of Moses Orshio University (formerly Benue State University) along Makurdi-Gboko Road.

    Tensions rose as security forces, including stern-looking anti-riot police and armed soldiers, were deployed across key locations in the city. Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs) were positioned at the Wurukum Roundabout — a critical junction linking the northern and southern parts of the country.

    Despite the heavy security presence, the protest remained peaceful. 

    The demonstrators converged on the Wurukum Roundabout, symbolically surrounding the Food Basket statue while chanting, “Stop Benue killings! Stop Benue killings!”

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    The protest follows a deadly overnight attack on Saturday, in which over 100 people were reportedly killed by suspected herdsmen in Yelewata and Saidu communities.

    One of the protesters, Mzamber Agatha, tearfully told The Nation that she lost her mother and five children in the massacre. 

    She urged the federal government to take decisive action to end the violence in the state.

  • ‘Why Navy has special operations command in Makurdi’

    ‘Why Navy has special operations command in Makurdi’

    Chief of Naval Staff, Vice Admiral Emmanuel Ogalla, has said the Special Operations Command in Makurdi is to coordinate training for operatives fighting on land.

    He said the command would play a part in the navy’s spectrum maritime security strategy, which requires well-trained and equipped land fighting forces to complement civil authority.

    Ogalla spoke on a national television programme.

    He said there were limitations with personnel that could fight on land since the service’s orientation is marine.

    He explained that Makurdi was chosen because of the vast land around River Benue as well as insecurity in the axis.

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    Ogalla said: “In the Navy, we have our Total Spectrum Maritime Security Strategy, which identifies our operations to be conducted in five spectrums. One of those spectrums is land operation, and this is because the navy provides aid to civil authority, and aid to civil power.

    “That’s why we are deployed in almost 30 states in support of the army and the police in fighting insecurity. That’s why we are deployed in Maiduguri, Chad Basin, Northwest, Northeast, South, and everywhere, in providing aid to civil authority.

    “We identified that because of our few numbers, we are limitated in being able to provide a force. We also have limitations concerning how to provide personnel adequately trained to fight on land, being that our orientation is maritime-based.

    “So, the Special Operations Command and Marines are meant to train people to fight on land in line with our Total Spectrum Maritime Strategy.

    “We are doing it, but we want to do it better. And why have we chosen Makurdi? Of course, you know River Benue is a vast expanse and the insecurity that is taking place in those areas.

    “Also, you notice that the elements of that command will not all be in Makurdi. For instance, the Navy Base in Lake Chad will be a unit of that command, and the Navy Base in Shagunu will also be a unit of that command.

    “Many of the units are fighting on land. Also, our Special Boat Service (SBS). All those units will be part of the command. So, the command is to provide a coordination framework for all Special Forces Operations supposed to contribute in the provision of internal security and military aid to civil power.”

    The CNS said in the last year, several naval personnel had undergone disciplinary actions over their involvement in oil theft.

  • Tension as police allegedly kill female student in Makurdi

    Tension as police allegedly kill female student in Makurdi

    There is a growing tension in Makurdi, the Benue State capital, following the killing of a female student of the Federal University, Wukari, Taraba State, Miss Emmanuela Ahenjir, at the early hours of Friday at Wurukum Roundabout.

    The Nation learnt that the deceased student went out with some friends on Thursday night and was returning home at about 4:00am, when on arriving Wurukum Roundabout met a police road-block.

    It was further gathered that the driver of the car conveying them took the other side of the road and refused to stop when police operatives flagged him down for a routine check; and that it was at this point that one of the officers allegedly opened fire, which hit the lady at her waist.

    Report said she later died before medication could come.

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    Meanwhile, there are threats that if by Tuesday next week, the identities of the police officers responsible for the killing are not made public; the city of Makurdi will be shut down.

    “Makurdi will witness a total shutdown through a peaceful protest. We will not relent. We will not be silenced. Justice must be served, and those responsible must be held accountable”.

    Ukan Kurugh, a Human and Gender Rights Activist, Voice of the Voiceless, and Messenger of Necessity, stated on his Facebook page

    “To the Commissioner of Police, the time to act is now. We have exhausted every peaceful and lawful avenue to seek justice, if we continue to be ignored, we will respond differently”, he threatened.

    Kurugh urged the public to anticipate the colors of the day which is BLACK. “Wait for further instructions. Do not wait until it hits your own home, stand up now,” he said.

    Efforts to get confirmation from the Police Public Relations Officer, CPS Sewuese Anene, failed, as she did not respond to the text message sent to her.

  • Four killed, others wounded in Makurdi cult clash

    Four killed, others wounded in Makurdi cult clash

    Four persons were killed during a cult clash at Akpehe, Wurukum, Makurdi, Benue State capital at the weekend.

    The victims were at a drinking joint on on Sunday night when gunmen suspected to be cultists overran the joint and shot at people indiscriminately.

    When the dust settled, four persons were dead while others sustained severe injuries. They are receiving treatment at various hospitals.

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    Public Public Relations Officer (PPRO), Chief Superintendent of Police Kate Aneene, who confirmed the incident in a statement, said investigations had started.

    This is the second cult-related killings in one week. Last Friday, a young man, Spanner, was shot dead at his shop in Wurukum.

    Akpehe is a surburb of Makurdi, populated by low-income owners. However, recently it has witnessed an increase in cult activities.

  • Flood submerges houses in Makurdi after nine-hour downpour

    Flood submerges houses in Makurdi after nine-hour downpour

    A Nine-Hour torrential rainfall has left many houses submerged with flood water, leaving property worth millions of naira destroyed in Makurdi, the Benue State capital on Friday.

    Mattress and other personal belongings could be seen floating on flood water following the downpour.

    Areas affected are Wadata, Logo 1/ 2 Wurukum market and Garage, Low Level along NKST Church Low Level all in Makurdi.

    Many residents could be seen hurriedly packing their belongings and moving to safe areas as the rain intensified.

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    Traders in Wurukum markets suffered huge losses as their wares were submerged in flood water.

    Schools and church premises were also flooded.

    Heavy rains and flooding have become a yearly ritual in Makurdi.

    The flood also caused a heavy traffic gridlock on the busy Makurdi-Otukpo federal highway, along Officon Hotels.

  • APC holds stakeholders meeting in Makurdi

    APC holds stakeholders meeting in Makurdi

    After truncating attempt to hold their State Executive Council Meeting (SEC) and stakeholders’ meeting , the All Progressives Congress (APC) finally held the meeting at the residence of Secretary to Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume in Makurdi, Benue State.

    The meeting was attended by state holders across the 23 local government areas .

    The Judges quarters sprawling residence of the SGF was filled with every available space in the yard occupied with APC members.

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    The meeting was held under the leadership of Comrade Austin Agada-led EXCO.

    APC chieftains in attendance include  Minister for Water Resources and Sanitation, Professor Joseph Terlumun Utsev, Sen. Titus Zam of Zone B, Sen. Emmanuel Memga Udende of Zone A, Director Finance and Housing Federal Housing. Authority Dr. Mathias Byuan, Dickson Tarkighir of Makurdi/ Guma Federal Constituency,  Arc. Austine Asema Achado of Gwer/ Gwer-west , House of Assembly members and many other notable leaders of the party across the state.

    Earlier attempt to hold the meeting was stopped by Benue State Police on the directive of the Governor Hyacinth Alia, who banned political activities and public gathering , citing insecurity.

  • JUST IN: Body of young man discovered on refuse dump in Makurdi

    JUST IN: Body of young man discovered on refuse dump in Makurdi

    The body of a young man, hands tied behind his back and bearing signs of brutalization relating to a suspected cult clash, was on the early morning of Sunday, January 28, discovered on a refuse dump in Makurdi, the capital of Benue state. 

    The victim believed to be between 20 and 25 years old and of black complexion, was found with one ear missing. 

    The incident occurred in the vicinity of Iorpuu Adai Street, Nyiman Layout, HUDCO quarters, in Makurdi. 

    His assailants had placed his body in a sack before dumping it. 

    The discovery was made by worshippers en route to morning service on Sunday.

    Police said they are yet to be informed of the ugly incident.

    Details later…

  • Cash scarcity hits makurdi as ATMs fail to dispense

    Cash scarcity hits makurdi as ATMs fail to dispense

    Scarcity of cash witnessed by some states last week has also hit Makurdi, the capital of Benue state. 

    The Nations investigation revealed that most of the Money Deposit Banks, MDBs, Automated Teller Machines, ATMs, failed to dispense cash over the weekend.

    Many customers were seen milling around ATMs at GT Bank along Otukpo Road, Makurdi, for hours to withdraw cash but the three (3)ATMs were out of service.

    A staff of GT Bank who pleaded anonymity told The Nation that “the matter will be solved on Monday, December 11.

    He advised customers to embrace payment and other payment options.

    When asked about those traveling to Ayilamo, Tombo ward, Logo government area, for the yuletide, he said one has to pay the canoe paddlers in cash before crossing River Benue.

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    The bank staff insisted that Nigerians and Benue people must accept expert payment until the situation improves.

    The scarcity of cash is coming less than one year after Nigerians faced a similar situation occasioned by a change of currency.

    However, CBN assured that there was enough cash and advised people to stop panic withdrawals.