Benue State Network News., Makurdi (2025)

21/09/2025

Police Arrest Six Suspects Over Deadly Attack on Tactical Team in Benue

The Nigeria Police Force has arrested six suspects in connection with the deadly attack on its Tactical Teams by suspected armed herdsmen and local militias at Agu Centre, Katsina-Ala/Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

The attack, which occurred on Friday, September 19, 2025, claimed the lives of three police officers, while seven others remain missing.

Benue State Network News learnt that the Commissioner of Police in Benue State, CP Innocent Ifeanyi Emenari, is leading an ongoing operation aimed at rescuing the missing personnel and apprehending fleeing suspects.

Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Adeolu Egbetokun, Ph.D., NPM, condemned the attack in strong terms, describing it as “cruel, unwarranted, and an affront on the good people of Benue State.”

The arrested suspects are currently in custody and are said to be providing useful information to investigators. The IGP has also directed the deployment of additional tactical assets to the area to ensure peace is restored and the perpetrators are brought to justice.

“The Nigeria Police Force urges members of the public to remain calm, vigilant, and supportive of security agencies as we intensify efforts to rescue our missing personnel, apprehend the fleeing suspects, and dismantle the criminal networks behind such reprehensible attacks,” the Force Public Relations Officer, CSP Benjamin Hundeyin, stated in Abuja on Sunday.

21/09/2025

‎Press Statement
‎
‎GOV. ALIA FELICITATES SENATOR OLUREMI TINUBU AT 65
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‎Sunday, 21st September 2025
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‎Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia, felicitates the wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, OON, CON, as she marks her 65th birthday anniversary.
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‎The Governor describes the First Lady as a source of inspiration, and a pillar of hope and support for many Nigerians, applauding her dedication to youth and women’s empowerment through her Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI).
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‎"The Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI) as a humanitarian programme of the First Lady, has greatly complemented Mr. President’s agenda for every citizen to benefit directly from government programmes. The programme which is a nationwide initiative aimed at lifting women, Persons with Disabilities (PWDs), widows, other vulnerable groups across the nation out of poverty, as well as support for victims of attacks, has been beneficial to many, including our dear State of Benue.
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‎"Her huge contributions and donations to the National Cancer Fund to fight the scourge of Cervical Cancer in Nigeria, is equally commendable, especially as the fight against cancer can only be won if there are available medical interventions for the patients," the governor emphasizes.
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‎He praises the First Lady for her love and compassion for humanity as the mother of the Nation, saying she has demonstrated that right from her time as the First Lady of Lagos State, a Senator and presently as the First Lady of Nigeria.
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The governor urges the First Lady to continue setting examples for women in leadership and governance, calling on her to continue to remain a strong support and partner to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as he strives daily to make Nigeria a better place for all.
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‎He wishes the First Lady well, and prays to God to grant her many more years in good health.
‎
‎Sir Tersoo Kula,mnipr,
‎Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State
‎

21/09/2025

WOMBO DECRIES BRUTAL ATTACK ON SECURITY PERSONNEL, URGES SWIFT ACTON.

The Member representing Katsina-Ala/Ukum/Logo Federal Constituency,Hon. Prince Solomon Wombo, has condemned in strong terms the recent ambush and attack on security personnel in the Agu Centre area of Mbatyula/Mberev Ward, Katsina-Ala Local Government Area. The attack, which took place on September 19, 2025, near the Benue-Taraba border, has left some people dead including security personnel.

Speaking on the incident, Hon. Wombo described the attack as "cowardly, brutal, and utterly unacceptable." He revealed that the ambush led to the recovery of two bodies of security operatives, while over twelve personnel remain missing. "Reports indicate that the assault was executed by a coalition of local militia, Fulani herders, and hired mercenaries, who not only took lives but also set patrol vehicles ablaze and made away with vital equipment," he said.

Hon. Wombo expressed deep sorrow for the families of the slain officers and extended his prayers for their strength in this difficult time. "These were gallant men—fathers, brothers, and loved ones—who laid their lives on the line to protect our communities. Their sacrifice must not be in vain," he stated.

The lawmaker called for immediate action from security agencies to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the atrocity. "This act of wickedness must be met with swift justice. I urge the authorities to intensify their efforts to bring these perpetrators to book and ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future," Hon. Wombo said.

He further appealed for unity among the people of Katsina-Ala and Sankera as a whole in combating insecurity. "Our ancestral lands will not be forcefully taken by bandits. Peace, security, and respect for human life are the pillars of progress. We must stand together to protect our communities," he added.

Hon. Wombo reaffirmed his confidence in the Benue State Government under the leadership of Governor Hyacinth Alia. "I believe in the governor’s commitment to restoring peace and securing the people of Sankera. His administration will leave no stone unturned in ensuring safety and stability for all residents," he assured.

"We cannot afford to play politics with human lives. Peace is non-negotiable, and we must all prioritize it above all else," he concluded, urging traditional rulers, political leaders, and stakeholders to collaborate in addressing insecurity through meaningful engagement and proactive measures.

20/09/2025

BN/BHS/OFF/34/I/1

19th September 2025

PRESS STATEMENT

BENUE STATE GOVERNMENT DENOUNCES PURPORTED BEMOA ELECTION

The attention of the Benue State Government has been drawn to the purported election allegedly conducted by Mr. Jacob Ternenge Nevkaa and Mr. Terfa Ahaa in the name of the Benue State Motor Cycle Hirers Association (BEMOA), wherein Mr. Terfa Ahaa was announced as Chairman.
The Government wishes to categorically state that the said purported exercise is a threat to public order; just as it constitutes Security breach and has the potential of breaching the peace of the Benue community. The purported election is also in violation of a clear directive of constituted authority.
Consequently, the Benue State Government hereby rejects the purported election in its entirety and directs all members of the Association, stakeholders, and the general public to disregard any claims emanating from it. The persons which the illegal process has produced as leaders of the association are hereby strongly warned not to parade themselves as leaders of the association.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Government has, with immediate effect, placed a ban on all activities of the Benue State Motor Cycle Hirers Association, including meetings, bookings, and related engagements, until further notice.
The Government reiterates its commitment to ensuring that all associations and unions in the state operate strictly within the confines of their constitutions and in compliance with Security obligations and directives of duly constituted authorities.

JA Gbamwuan
Air Commodore (Rtd)
Director General
Bureau of Homeland Security

20/09/2025

DAUDU POLICE STATION TO RECEIVE FACELIFT, RECONSTRUCTION TO COMMENCE TOMORROW

By Ernest Tortiv

The Executive Chairman of Guma Local Government Council, Hon. Orwough Maurice , has announced that reconstruction work on the Daudu Police Station will commence tomorrow, September 20, 2025.

Hon. Orwough made this known today during a visit to the Daudu Police Division, where he disclosed that the facelift is aimed at improving the working environment of security personnel, boosting their morale, and enhancing overall operation.

It will be recalled that the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Kayode Egbetokun recently approved the request of the Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, to upgrade the Daudu Police Division to the status of a Police Area Command. In line with this development, the chairman directed the immediate remodeling of the station to meet the new standard.

Hon. Orwough in his remarks to the Divisional Police Officer, SP Terseer Imoban, emphasized that the project aligns with his administration’s commitment to prioritizing security and providing an enabling environment for law enforcement agencies.

In his response, SP Terseer Imoban welcomed the initiative and expressed gratitude, describing it as a timely intervention that will reinforce public safety and strengthen community confidence in the security architecture of the area.

19/09/2025

BENUE SCHOOL EXPLOSION: EDUCATION COMMISSIONER LEADS GOVERNMENT RESPONSE, PROMISES SWIFT ACTION TO RESTORE SAFETY, UNVEILS PLANS TO REPAIR SCHOOL

By Orseer Mnzughulga, Makurdi

In the wake of a tragic explosion at Local Government Education Authority Primary school, Ater, in Ukum Local Government Area, which left seven pupils injured, the Benue State Government has launched a comprehensive response to address the incident and ensure the welfare of the affected children. Leading the charge, the Honourable Commissioner for Education and Knowledge Management, Dr. Margaret Adamu, visited the injured pupils at St. Anthony’s Hospital, Zaki-Biam, on Thursday, reaffirming the government’s commitment to their recovery and to preventing future tragedies.

Dr. Adamu, accompanied by the Executive Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Grace Adagba, and other senior government officials, described the explosion as "deeply unfortunate" and commended all stakeholders for their rapid response in managing the aftermath.

“We are here to show our concern and love for the children and to ensure that they receive the best medical care possible,” Dr. Adamu stated during the hospital visit. “The Benue State Government, under the leadership of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, places a high premium on the safety and education of every child in the state. We are hopeful that these children will recover quickly and return to their studies soon.”

The Commissioner commended the activities of the SUBEB Chairman in her passion for the general welfare of the children. She also lauded the swift intervention of Ukum Local Government Council Chairman, Hon. Modi Jonathan, who ensured the injured pupils were promptly transported for medical attention. She commended the management and staff of St. Anthony’s Hospital for their professionalism and dedication in stabilizing the victims.

Dr. Adamu assured parents and guardians that the state government would take all necessary steps to prevent similar incidents in the future. “We will work closely with SUBEB and local education authorities to strengthen safety measures in schools across the state,” she pledged.

The delegation covered all medical expenses for the injured pupils and revealed plans to commence repairs on the damaged school facility. Dr. Adamu highlighted that the government's response would extend beyond the victims' immediate recovery, prioritizing the restoration of the school to a safe and fully operational state.

The explosion, which occurred on Monday September 15th, 2025, reportedly happened when pupils allegedly discovered an explosive device in their classroom and began playing with it, leading to the devastating blast. Eyewitness accounts suggest the device may have been inadvertently left behind during a military operation targeting bandits in the area.

The injured pupils—Abigail Terseer (Primary Five), William Msaaga and Tyolumun Deborah (Primary Six), Terseer Mhenuter (Primary Three), Mzungwega Mnengeuter (Primary Two, and Aondohemba Luper (Primary One)—were rushed to St. Anthony’s Hospital, Zaki-Biam, for urgent medical care. Three of the children are now ready to be discharged, while one with a severe eye injury is set to be referred to Makurdi for specialized treatment, according to Hon. Modi Jonathan.

The Managing Director of St. Anthony’s Hospital, Rev. Sr. Susan Tonguve, confirmed that the injured pupils had been stabilized and assured that the hospital was doing everything possible to ensure their recovery.

Mr. Mnzungwega Yongo, who spoke on behalf of the affected families expressed gratitude to the Benue State Government for its swift intervention. “We appreciate the government’s care and concern during this difficult time. The promptness with which the medical bills were cleared and the visits made by government officials have given us hope,” he said.

The visit also featured a courtesy call to the Ukum Local Government Education Authority (LGEA) office and the Chairman of the Local Government Council.

The delegation reaffirmed the Benue State government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and well-being of all schoolchildren in the state. Plans are underway to assess the extent of damage to the affected school and initiate repairs immediately.

18/09/2025

BREAKING: Former Imo State House of Assembly member, Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, who once represented Okigwe State Constituency, has regained his freedom after being k!dnapped by the dreaded gang led by late “Gentle De Yahoo"

Recall that Hon. Ogbu was abdμ¢ted after he visited the gang’s camp to negotiate for peace, so he could bury a de¢eased relative without disturbances. Despite collecting money from him, the gang reneged on their promise, detained him, and took him deep into their camp in the bush.

Gentle the Yahoo and his second-in-command, “Angel Make Up,” had earlier released a video parading the lawmaker, thr£atening to k:!ll him if the Imo State Government did not withdraw security operatives from Okigwe.

However, in a swift and well-coordinated commando operation, the Nigerian Army stormed the gang’s camp in Aku, Okigwe. The operation led to the el!mination of Gentle the Yahoo, Angel Make Up, and several other members of the group. Over 12 captives, including Hon. Ngozi Ogbu, were rescued alive.

18/09/2025

BREAKING: FG ends passport production at multiple centres, transition to a single, centralised system for the first time in 62 years. Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, revealed this on Thursday while inspecting Nigeria’s new Centralised Passport Personalisation Centre at the NIS Headquarters in Abuja.

He stated that since the establishment of NIS in 1963, Nigeria had never operated a central passport production centre, until now, marking a major reform milestone.

“The project is 100 per cent ready. Nigeria can now be more productive and efficient in delivering passport services,” Tunji-Ojo said.

He explained that old machines could only produce 250 to 300 passports daily, but the new system had a capacity of 4,500 to 5,000 passports every day.

18/09/2025

Forum of PSA Decries Abduction of Hon. Terver Krayzietee Atu Calls for His Immediate Release

Thursday, 18/09/2025

The Forum of Principal Special Assistants (PSAs) to the Governor of Benue State expresses deep worry over the displeasing incident of the abduction of one of her members, Hon. Terver Atu, popularly known as Krayzeetee.

Hon. Terver Atu, who is Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth and Media Mobilization was kidnapped on Tuesday, September 16, 2025 in Abuja by yet to be identified group of people.

The Forum, in strong terms, condemns this troubling and heart- wrenching development especially as it is over 24 hours now and no contact has been made with his family or the Government of Benue State disclosing his whereabouts or the intention of the kidnappers.

The Forum calls for unconditional and immediate release of Hon. Terver Atu who has been very active speaking and raising awareness about the good works of his principal, Rev Fr Dr Hyacinth Iormem Alia.

The Forum also queries the sudden assault on strong supporters of Governor Alia, pointing out the recent attack on Haakyav Tombu Peter in Makurdi and now the abduction of Hon. Terver Atu in Abuja, and calls on those who may have been behind the selective harassment of Governor Alia supporters to have a rethink and give peace a chance to reign.

It also appeals to security agencies to expedite actions and secure the safe release of Hon. Terver Atu and equally ensure that perpetrators of such heinous act are brought to book.

18/09/2025

Benue Agric Commissioner Holds Reconciliation Meeting, Sues for Peace Between Warring AFAN Factions

By Enoch Azaye | September 18, 2025

The lingering leadership crisis rocking the All Farmers Associations of Nigeria (AFAN), Benue State Chapter, may soon be laid to rest following a peace and reconciliation meeting convened by the State Commissioner for Agriculture and Food Security, Dr. Benjamin Ashaver, in Makurdi on Thursday.

For sometime, AFAN in Benue has been enmeshed in factional disputes, leaving the umbrella body for farmers divided and weakened. Before opening discussions, Dr. Ashaver gave both factions the opportunity to speak openly, urging all parties to be truthful and mindful of their responsibility as custodians of Government recognized structures.

Deliberations revealed that the major cause of disunity in the association was the consistent breach of AFAN’s constitution. One of the members, quoting political philosopher Tse Tung, said: “A society without leadership and law: life will be brutish, nasty, and short.”

Responding after listening to the grievances, Dr. Ashaver expressed deep concern over the state of affairs. He noted that he did not envisage inheriting such a divided association upon assuming office, especially at a time when Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, is prioritizing the Digital transformation and modernization of Agriculture in Benue.

“It is unfortunate that this crisis is rocking AFAN when the governor is so determined to upgrade Benue agriculture to a modernized, digital infrastructure. We must get out of this quagmire before such lofty goals can be achieved,” he said.

While urging strict adherence to AFAN’s constitution, the Commissioner cautioned against selfishness and internal sabotage.

“As we work, let us remember that tomorrow is longer than today. We must not allow selfish desires to divide us. Let us put aside bad energy, sit together as a family, and roll out a working plan that unites rather than divides. Democracy must be allowed to prevail,” Dr. Ashaver advised.

At the end of the meeting, members of both factions commended the Commissioner’s sagacity and patience as a mediator. They also acknowledged at last that respect for order and the constitution remained the only path to peace, stressing that crisis had never built any sustainable institution.

18/09/2025

Just In...

Speaker of the 10th Benue State House of Assembly, Rt.Hon. Berger Alfred Emberga has approves Governor Hyacinth Alia's request to appoint 10 more Special Advisers.

18/09/2025

BENUE APC ENDORSES TINUBU, ALIA FOR 2ND TERM

By Hope Abah | Wed, 17 Sep 2025 5:08:44 WAT

The Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Governor Hyacinth Alia for re-election in 2027.

State Unity Caretaker Committee Chairman, Chief Benjamin Omale, disclosed this yesterday in Makurdi.

He said Tinubu and Alia have performed creditably and deserve re-election to consolidate on their achievements, and urged the newly appointed officials of the state government to mobilise eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

“True love for the governor and the president can only be shown at the polls,” he said.

Source: Daily Trust

Benue State Network News.

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