Benue State Network News., Makurdi (2025)

03/07/2025

Coalition: Atiku Support Group Directs Members Nationwide To Join ADC

Nigerian Youths for Atiku, NYFA, has issued a directive to its members in all the 36 states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory to join the African Democratic Congress, ADC, immediately.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the former Vice President Atiku Abubakar-led National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement with some aggrieved APC leaders have adopted the ADC as a platform to unseat Tinubu in 2027.

NYFA Founder and President, Prof. Gold Emmanuel, who gave the directive in a statement by the group’s Director- General, Dare Dada, on Thursday in Lagos, said that the group remained a critical part of Abubakar’s structure.

Mrs Emmanuel said that the directive followed the adoption of ADC by Abubakar, the 2023 Presidential Candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP.

According to him, the decision was made at an emergency meeting of the group in Lagos.
Mrs Emmanuel said: “Members of NYFA must do the right thing by joining the ADC immediately.

“It is also important that the ADC aligns with the majority,” she said.

She said Nigerians were not happy with the APC administration and were yearning for change.

Mrs Emmanuel added that the group had been critical of the present administration’s policies such as interest rate hike, subsidy removal and electricity tariff hike.

She said the group strongly believe that Atiku and other political leaders in ADC would make a difference in 2027.

Mrs Emmanuel said that the NYFA’s unwavering support for Abubakar was rooted in the group’s strong belief in his commitment to restructuring Nigeria into a more productive economic federation.

“We also trust in his vision to reform our electoral system—particularly by ensuring transparency and accountability at local government and state collation centers, where electoral malpractice is most prevalent,” she said.

NAN recalls that ex-Senate President David Mark and ex-Governor Rauf Aregbesola were named ADC Interim Chairman and Secretary, respectively, on Tuesday.

On Wednesday, Mr Mark officially launched the ADC as the platform for the National Coalition of Political Opposition Movement.

Prominent opposition figures present included Atiku Abubakar, a former Labour Party(LP)Presidential Candidate, Peter Obi; Datti Baba-Ahmed, and a former governor of Rivers and Minister of Transportation, Rotimi Amaechi.

Others included former Kaduna governor ,Nasir El-Rufai; former Attorney-General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami; Former Sokoto governor ,Aminu Tambuwal, Ireti Kingibe, Liyel Imoke, and Bolaji Abdullahi.

Also in attendance were John Oyegun, Gabriel Suswam, Tunde Ogbeha, Mohammed Abubakar, Emeka Ihedioha, and Oserheimen Osunbor.
Victor Umeh, Celestine Omehia, Abdulfatah Ahmed, Bindow Jibrilla, Babachir Lawal, Aishatu Binani, and Dele Momodu also attended.

Senator Dino Melaye, Professor Olushola Eleka, and Senator Ishaku Abbo were also present at the event. (NAN)

03/07/2025

David Olofu, the former commissioner for finance and budget (2015-2023) under former Governor Samuel Ortom, has resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party.

Mr Olofu announced his resignation in a letter addressed to Edikwu Ward 2 Chairman, Apa LGA, on Wednesday.

He was the former chairman of the Forum of State Commissioners for Finance of Nigeria (2019–2023).

Mr Olofu said his decision to leave the party was to enable him to exercise his freedom of association as enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I write to inform you of my decision to resign as a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with effect from 30th June, 2025.

“This decision has become necessary as I move to exercise my right to freedom of association enshrined in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“I have done this in the interest of Edikwu Ward 2, Apa Local Government Area, Benue South Senatorial District, and indeed Benue State,” he said.

Mr Olofu was a senior technical adviser to the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (2023–2024).

Mr Olofu is currently the leader of the new coalition in Apa council.

(NAN)

01/07/2025

TASKFORCE CRACKS DOWN ON NOTORIOUS MARCHING GROUND GANGSTERS IN MAKURDI, TWO ARRESTED.

The Taskforce on Illegal Levies and Related Forms of Criminality in Benue State has successfully apprehended two notorious gangsters, Mamadu Terungwa and Iwar Boniface, for their alleged involvement in invading a development site in Mbaagi Community, Apir, Makurdi. The culprits reportedly demanded a staggering N400,000 as "Marching Ground" from the site owner, resorting to damaging six bags of cement when their demands were ignored.

The Taskforce team, alerted by a distress call, promptly responded to the scene and arrested the gangsters.

Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Benue State on Youth Organization and Illegal Levies, Hon. Gbenda Terver, has warned Benue youths involved in such activities to desist or face the full wrath of the law.

He emphasized that the government is committed to tackling the scourge of Marching Ground and other forms of illegal levies, which have been a major obstacle to development in the state.

The arrested gangsters have been handed over to the Police Area Command, Makurdi, for prosecution and detention.

In a statement, Hon. Gbenda urged the public to report suspicious activities by calling the Taskforce's hotline, 07063894788.

He further assured the public that the government would take all necessary measures to ensure that those involved in such activities are brought to justice.

The Taskforce on Illegal Levies and Related Forms of Criminality was established by the Benue State Government to tackle the menace of illegal levies and other forms of criminality in the state.

©️ Chia Saint Paul

01/07/2025

Wike Slashes UniAbuja Land From 11,000 To 4000 Heactares Over Unauthorized Acquisition

The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr Nyesom Wike, has ordered the reduction of the University of Abuja’s land allocation from 11,000 to 4,000 hectares, citing unauthorized land acquisition and lack of documentation.

Wike who made this declaration during the official commissioning of the newly constructed access roads in the Giri District of Abuja, emphasized the strategic importance of the Giri district, which hosts major institutions such as the University of Abuja and the EFCC Academy.

He expressed concern over what he described as “land grabbing” by the university, accusing it of fencing off large swathes of land without proper approval or documentation.

“The University on their own grabbed 11,000 hectares. I said that will not happen. No document, nothing. You see them fencing everywhere, and before you know it, they would have gone to sell our land,” Wike stated.

To address the issue, the minister directed the Director of Lands and other relevant FCTA agencies to allocate only 4,000 hectares to the university, while the remaining land will be reallocated for planned development within the district.

Wike who assured residents and stakeholders that the FCT Administration is committed to infrastructural development in Giri and surrounding areas, announced that internal road construction within the district would commence soon, with plans already underway by the Federal Capital Development Authority (FCDA).

“Having created this access road, we have told the Executive Secretary of FCDA and other relevant agencies to start working on details of how we are going to do the roads within the district. So, be assured that maybe next one year, it will be a different thing,” he said.

He thanked the National Assembly for its support in facilitating supplementary budgetary allocations for the project, acknowledging the role such infrastructure plays in encouraging investment and development.

He further hinted at a potential collaboration with the National Assembly in setting up institutions in the district, pledging FCTA's support for land provision to fast-track the process.

The EFCC Academy, one of the major institutions in the area, is expected to commence operations immediately following the completion of the road, which now provides easy access for equipment mobilization and structural development.

“They will start the academy immediately because now they have access roads that they can move in their equipment and develop this. And when this comes, you see that other people will also move in and develop their own area,” he added.

Highlighting the challenge of infrastructure scarcity discouraging land development, Wike pledged to provide essential amenities such as roads, water, and electricity to attract investors and improve the living conditions in the district.

“Most of the problems we’re having here is that sometimes when you allocate land, there are no facilities, no infrastructure, and people are not encouraged. So we will do everything we can to see that basic infrastructure is being provided,” he said.

01/07/2025

Fulani Scholars Urge Ban on Hausa Vigilante Groups After Recent Elimination of Bandit Leaders

A storm of controversy has erupted across Northern Nigeria following a public statement by Sheikh Musa Asadus-Sunnah, popularly known as Arɗon Miyetti Allah, who represents a faction of Fulani scholars and elites. In a bold and divisive address, Sheikh Musa called for the immediate disbandment of Hausa vigilante groups operating across the North-West region, citing recent actions by these groups as "unacceptable."

The cleric's statement comes in the wake of several high-profile Fulani bandit leaders being neutralized by local vigilantes. Among those reportedly killed are Kacalla Ɗan Bakollo, Kacalla Maidada, and Kacalla Maijikka — all notorious for orchestrating deadly attacks, kidnappings, and terrorizing rural communities in states like Zamfara, Kaduna, and Katsina.

Addressing federal security authorities, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Defence Staff General Christopher Musa, and the Ministers of Defence Bello Matawalle and Badaru Abubakar, Sheikh Musa urged the government to halt all community-based vigilante operations in Hausa territories.

Instead, he proposed what he described as a “reconciliation and reintegration approach” for armed bandits — similar to the amnesty program once offered to Niger Delta militants. His recommendations included government-sponsored manufacturing jobs and social reintegration programs for the fighters.

The comments have been met with widespread condemnation across Hausa communities, many of which have borne the brunt of brutal bandit attacks for years. Thousands have been killed, abducted, or displaced in the escalating crisis, with state security forces often stretched thin.

“This is not just tone-deaf — it’s dangerous,” said a civil society activist in Sokoto. “You can’t compare economic-motivated militancy in the Niger Delta with terrorism and ethno-criminal violence in the North-West.”

Security experts have also expressed concern, warning that disbanding vigilante groups without viable alternatives could leave many communities vulnerable.

While federal authorities have yet to issue an official response, pressure is mounting on the government to clarify its stance on the matter. The growing debate underscores deepening tensions between Fulani and Hausa communities, as well as rising public frustration over the government’s handling of insecurity in the region.

Credit: Hausaland Magazine

30/06/2025

BENUE LINKS NIGERIA LIMITED CONFIRMS SAFE RELEASE OF 10 ABDUCTED PASSENGERS AND DRIVER

Benue Links Nigeria Limited is relieved to confirm the safe release of the remaining ten (10) passengers and the driver who were abducted during a recent unfortunate incident involving one of our vehicles along the Eke-Elengbecho axis of Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue State on Sunday, 22nd June, 2025.

The passengers, who were initially twelve (12) at the point of abduction, with two earlier rescued, had been held against their will by unidentified individuals but have now regained their freedom. We are deeply grateful that they have returned safely and are in stable condition. Appropriate medical evaluations and counseling are currently ongoing to support their well-being after this distressing ordeal.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the relevant security agencies, community leaders, and all those who played a critical role in facilitating the release of the passengers. Their coordinated efforts and dedicated commitment to the safety of citizens have been invaluable during this challenging time.

Benue Links Nigeria Limited remains steadfast in our commitment to the safety and security of all our passengers and staff. We will continue to collaborate closely with law enforcement authorities to ensure that justice is served and to prevent a recurrence of such incidents. Enhanced security measures are also being implemented across all our routes to further safeguard our operations.

We thank the public for their patience, prayers, and continued trust in Benue Links.

Johnson Ehi Daniel.
Information Officer,
Benue Links Nigeria Limited.

29/06/2025

TIV GROUP RESPONDS TO ALAGO ASSOCIATION OVER TOR TIV'S COMMENTS DURING PRESIDENTIAL VISIT

The Majagera ū Tiv, Muchacho Ugoh, has issued a strong-worded rejoinder to a recent press release by the Alago Ikweyi Gbagyi Development Association, Abuja branch, following remarks made by the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Iorzua Ortese Ayatse, during President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s recent visit to Nasarawa State.

In the statement, Ugoh emphasized the historical legitimacy and indigenous status of the Tiv people in Nasarawa State, tracing their presence back to the 14th and 15th centuries under the decentralized rulership of the Tor Agbande. He noted that the Tiv leadership structure was formally centralized under the Tor Tiv institution in 1946, shortly after World War II.

Ugoh described the Tiv as the most populous ethnic group in the North Central region and a critical force in Nigeria’s minority rights movement, citing historical figures such as Dr. Joseph Sarwuan Tarka and the role of the United Middle Belt Congress (UMBC) in advocating for minority representation.

Addressing the statement made by the Tor Tiv, Ugoh asserted that it was delivered in the presence of President Tinubu, Governor Abdullahi Sule of Nasarawa State, and traditional leaders including the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Bage (rtd), and reflected the Tor Tiv’s authority as the paramount ruler of Tiv people worldwide.

While President Tinubu called for mutual tolerance and peaceful coexistence among ethnic groups, the Tiv leadership condemned the response from the Abuja-based Alago group, describing it as “misleading” and potentially inflammatory. The rejoinder accused the group of fueling ethnic tensions and attempting to erase Tiv political relevance in Nasarawa through orchestrated marginalization and violence.

Ugoh further described the Alago association’s position as that of “an elite frontier of the organized Kororofa oligarchy” allegedly seeking regional dominance. He maintained that Tiv communities have coexisted peacefully with Alago people across Benue and Nasarawa States and pointed to records of Alago citizens benefiting from political inclusion in Benue State.

The Tiv leader also called on the intelligence community and security agencies to closely monitor the Abuja branch of the Alago Ikweyi Gbagyi Development Association, warning that they should be held accountable for any future aggression targeted at Tiv indigenes.

The statement concluded with a firm rejection of ethnic chauvinism and communal hostilities, reiterating the Tiv nation’s commitment to defending its historical rights and promoting peace in line with the aspirations of the Tinubu administration.

23/06/2025

The Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN) is set to introduce a fully cashless payment system across airports nationwide as part of efforts to modernise operations and improve passenger experience.

Speaking at a stakeholders’ engagement forum in Lagos, FAAN Managing Director, Mrs Olubunmi Kuku, said the initiative would phase out cash transactions at all airports, replacing them with automated payment options.

Under the new system, passengers and service providers will be able to conduct transactions using standard bank cards, QR codes, payment links, and digital wallets such as Apple Pay.

Mrs Kuku noted that the cashless policy aligns with global best practices and is aimed at enhancing transparency, efficiency, and convenience within the aviation sector

23/06/2025

GOVERNOR ALIA SUSPENDS SPECIAL ADVISER, REAFFIRMS COMMITMENT TO INTEGRITY AND ACCOUNTABILITY

Sunday, June 22, 2025

The Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, directs the immediate and indefinite suspension of Mr. Mkor Aondona, Special Adviser on Documentation, Research, and Planning, following his arrest by operatives of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) over alleged involvement in sextortion, cyberbullying, and blackmail.

The Governor’s decision is in line with his unwavering commitment to uphold integrity, discipline, and accountability in public service.

He says any official of his administration found wanting in matters of criminality or ethical misconduct will face the full weight of the law.

While assuring the public that the law will take its full course without interference or bias, the Governor states clearly that his administration will not tolerate any act that brings the government into disrepute or undermines public trust.

He points out that public office is a call to serve with honour, transparency, and responsibility, and anyone who deviates from this path will have no place in his government.

The suspended aide is expected to submit himself fully to the legal process to answer to the grave allegations levelled against him.

The Government of Benue State under the administration of Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia remains committed to protecting the rights and dignity of all citizens, especially women and vulnerable groups, and will continue to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to ensure justice is served.

Tersoo Kula, mnipr
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor.

22/06/2025

JAMB schedules mop-up UTME for over 90,000 candidates

Over 90,000 candidates are to participate in the rescheduled 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) mop-up exercise in 183 centres across the nation on Saturday, June 28, 2025.

A statement by the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) explains that the examination will accommodate the 5,096 spill-over candidates and those who failed biometric verification during the main exercise.

Also, 91,742 candidates who were absent in both or either of the main and resit examinations will be given this opportunity.

It says 113 computer-based testing (CBT) centers have been delisted or suspended for infractions during the mock, UTME, and resit examinations.

According to the statement, candidates who fall into the deactivated examination towns would be assigned to examination towns closest to the delisted towns.

22/06/2025

FG partners Gambia on strategies for food security

The Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security is to collaborate with the Government of Gambia in food production to promote food sufficiency and economic growth.

The Minister of Agriculture and Food Security, Abubakar Kyari, stated this during a visit of the Gambian delegation led by the Gambian Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security, Dr Dembal Sabally, in Abuja.

Kyari stated that President Bola Tinubu had declared a state of emergency on Food Security to tackle food insecurity arising from climate change with over N200 billion in intervention.

In a remark, the Gambian Minister of Agriculture, Livestock and Food Security, Dr Demba Sabally, stated that Nigeria has overcome rice insufficiency, which Gambia is still struggling to achieve.

21/06/2025

Top opposition leaders move to form new party

Some major Opposition politicians in the country have applied to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to register a new political party called the All Democrats Alliance (ADA).

Documents seen by Radio Nigeria reveal that the party’s logo features red, green, and blue colors, with a maize plant sprouting from the green section.

According to the meeting minutes of a group known as the New Platform Committee, former Minister of Transportation, Mr Rotimi Amaechi, signed as Chairman, and Dr Umar Ardo as Secretary.

The minutes indicate that top political figures, including former Senate President David Mark, gathered in Abuja and named Chief Akin Ricketts as the provisional National Chairman and Abdullahi Musa Elayo as the provisional National Secretary.

Benue State Network News.

03/07/2025

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