Benue State Network News., Makurdu (2025)

29/07/2025

“Our Attackers Come from Nasarawa State and Retreat After Striking”-Tor Tiv Tells First Lady Mrs. Tinubu

~Tor Tiv V, Prof. Ayatse, Cries Out to Sen. Remi Tinubu During Visit to Makurdi

In a powerful appeal that laid bare the ongoing security crisis in Benue State, the Tor Tiv the 5th, His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, has told Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, that violent attackers responsible for the frequent killings and displacements in Tiv land come from neighboring Nasarawa State and return there after carrying out their assaults.

The monarch made the statement during the First Lady’s official visit to the Government House in Makurdi, where she met with state officials, traditional rulers, and internally displaced persons as part of her humanitarian and peace-building engagements.

“Your Excellency Ma,” Prof. Ayatse stated solemnly, “our attackers come from Nasarawa State. After attacking us, they withdraw and go back to Nasarawa State.”

The Tor Tiv’s remarks, delivered in the presence of state dignitaries and traditional council members, drew attention to the persistent cross-border violence that has plagued several Benue communities for years, particularly in the Tiv-speaking areas.

He appealed to the First Lady to convey the people’s anguish and plea for justice to President Bola Tinubu, stressing that peace in Benue cannot be achieved until the sources of these attacks are addressed through decisive federal intervention.

The monarch also used the opportunity to commend the First Lady for her national outreach under the Renewed Hope Initiative, and for showing solidarity with the people of Benue in their time of need.

Senator Remi Tinubu, visibly moved by the monarch’s plea, assured him that she would deliver his message directly to the President. She reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to peace, security, and the restoration of dignity to displaced and traumatized communities across Nigeria.

The First Lady’s visit also included stops at IDP camps and the donation of relief materials as part of her continued advocacy for women and vulnerable populations affected by conflict.

29/07/2025

GOVERNOR ALIA REITERATES CLAMOUR FOR STATE POLICE, ANTI-OPEN GRAZING, CITES INCREASING INSURGENCY IN BENUE

Tuesday, July 29, 2025

The Governor of Benue State Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has once again called for the immediate establishment of State Police in Nigeria, pointing out that the present centralized security structure has failed to properly address the lingering attacks and killings in parts of the country, particularly in Benue.

He also reiterated the call for a regional approach to ranching, calling on the First Lady to champion the domestication of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law across the North Central region.

He made these remarks while receiving the First Lady, who was in the state to condole with the people of Benue over the continued loss of lives and displacement caused by violent attacks.

He emphasized that a decentralized and locally controlled police force is critical to improving security response, intelligence gathering, and accountability in vulnerable communities.

He said, “The current security architecture has not proven sufficient in curbing the incessant attacks on our communities,”

“It is time for Nigeria to embrace State Police as a practical and necessary step towards securing lives, property, and peace across the nation.”

The Governor argued that uniform enforcement across states would eliminate safe havens for violators moving across borders, nothing that over 1.5 million Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) are currently spread across camps and host communities in the state, with new camps emerging in Makurdi and Naka due to recent attacks.

He commended Sen. Tinubu for her compassion and multiple interventions through the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), which have benefitted women, youths, traders, and vulnerable groups in Benue State.

“The people of Benue State are sincerely grateful. Your visit is not just symbolic; it is impactful and healing,” the Governor added.

Meanwhile, Mrs. Tinubu who condoled Governor Alia, Tor Tiv and the people of the state over the recent massacre at Yelewata, donated the sum of N1b to help rebuild and resettle displaced families who loss lives and property in tragedies perpetrated by marauding armed herders.

Sir Tersoo Kula, mnipr
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State.

25/07/2025

Tragic Accident Sparks Protest on Yandev–Ugbema Road

A fatal accident that occurred this afternoon along the Yandev–Ugbema road has triggered a protest by angry youths who have blocked the highway in response.

The accident happened at a police checkpoint located between Gatie and Garagbough, near a popular fruit market. Eyewitnesses described the scene as devastating, though the number of casualties remains unconfirmed at the time of filing this report.

Local residents have blamed the positioning of police checkpoints for the incident, describing them as poorly managed and hazardous. Protesters are calling on Benue State Governor, Rev. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, and the Commissioner of Police to urgently intervene.

According to locals, the checkpoints often accused of extortion and causing traffic delays pose serious risks to commuters and have now led to loss of life.

22/07/2025

Alleged Ritual Activities by 'Yahoo Plus' Boys Spark Outrage in Makurdi

Tension gripped residents of North Bank in Makurdi on Monday following reports of suspected ritual activities involving alleged internet fraudsters, popularly known as “Yahoo Plus” boys.

Eyewitnesses claim that a group of young men were seen conducting suspicious rituals near Benco Hotels, allegedly as part of a transition from regular cybercrime ("Yahoo Yahoo") to the more sinister “Yahoo Plus,” which is often associated with human sacrifice and occult practices.

According to a local resident who shared photos of the incident, a ritualist reportedly travelled from Benin City to perform the so-called “cleansing” for the fraudsters. The ritual was said to be disrupted by members of the North Bank Community who apprehended the suspects. One Jerome was named as the youth leader who allegedly led the arrest.

Though official confirmation from the police is yet to be obtained, community members have commended the youths for taking action.

The growing influence of Yahoo boys in cities like Makurdi and Gboko has raised concern among residents. Many believe the surge in high-end housing and increased rent prices is being driven by the lifestyle of these individuals, often overshadowing genuine hardworking citizens.

“There are more Yahoo boys than legitimate hustlers in town,” a resident lamented. “And what’s more worrying is that Yahoo Plus is said to involve human sacrifices, especially targeting women.”

22/07/2025

Nigeria and Egypt Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Deepen Aviation Cooperation

The federal republic of Nigeria and the Arab republic of Egypt have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to strengthen bilateral cooperation in the aviation sector.

This MOU, signed following a review of the bilateral air service agreement (BASA) between the two countries, aims to expand bilateral ties through aviation, unlock new opportunities in technical cooperation, route expansion, and joint investment in civil aviation infrastructure, and enhance regional integration, service delivery, and connectivity in Africa.

Minister of aviation and aerospace development Festus kKyamo describes the signing of the MOU as a historic milestone, signaling a new chapter of collaboration and shared prosperity between Nigeria and Egypt.

Egyptian minister of foreign affairs dr. Badr Abdelatty expressed gratitude for the warm reception and conveyed greetings from president Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, reiterating Egypt's commitment to strengthening bilateral relations with Nigeria.

This partnership is expected to further enhance the strong commercial ties and mutual benefits between both nations.

18/07/2025

Alia prioritizing quality, accountability in infrastructure delivery — Abo

By Ayihe Festus Sulega

Benue State Commissioner for Information Culture and Tourism, Hon. Abo Matthew, has lauded Gov. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia for his unwavering commitment to quality infrastructure, financial transparency, and the empowerment of local contractors.

Speaking with some Media representatives recently at his office in Makurdi, Hon. Abo emphasized the administration’s deliberate strategy to match project scope with contractor capacity, particularly when engaging indigenous firms.

“It is a disservice to assign an underpass project to a two-star contractor,” he said. “Just like a child must crawl before they walk and then run, we are gradually building the capacity of local contractors by assigning them smaller projects initially.”

He noted that several indigenous firms have progressed from minor assignments to executing more complex jobs such as short-span bridges and roads extending up to 20–30 kilometers.

Abo, however, explained that while some major infrastructural projects are still awarded to experienced expatriate firms due to technical demands, most of the materials and labour used such as cement, sand, bitumen, and iron rods, are sourced locally.

“This ensures that funds circulate within our local economy, creating jobs and supporting small businesses,” he stated.

The commissioner stressed that the Alia administration remains firmly committed to empowering indigenous contractors while maintaining high standards.

“We are making steady progress. Every year, we allocate good amount of money specifically for inter-local government roads, in addition to other major road projects that link various LGAs.”

He also highlighted a recent inspection tour by senior editors and veteran journalists who visited multiple project sites across the state during the two years administration anniversary of Gov. Alia.

According to Abo, the visitors were highly impressed by both the quality of infrastructure and Benue State’s consistency in honouring payment commitments.

“They were amazed that once a project certificate is verified in Benue, Governor Alia pays almost 100%, no delays, no excuses. I say with confidence, that Benue State despite the insecurity confronting her is still doing very well.

He attributed this financial discipline to the governor’s leadership style, which emphasizes results over media visibility.

Abo added that the governor’s hands-on leadership, backed by a proactive State Executive Council, has ensured that many of the administration’s achievements speak for themselves, even without elaborate commissioning ceremonies.

“There’s so much going on that we haven’t even publicized. But when you come to Benue, the projects speak for themselves.”

He urged citizens and stakeholders to continue supporting the administration, noting that Governor Alia is laying a foundation for inclusive growth and sustainability.

He highlighted key developmental gains across multiple sectors, including roads, education, housing, and healthcare. He noted that over 150 primary health centers have been tiped for revamping, with secondary and tertiary institutions also undergoing upgrades.

“We are procuring advanced medical machines and more to elevate healthcare delivery across the state.”

While refraining from naming specific contractors to avoid undue promotion, Mr. Abo acknowledged the vital roles played by both local and international firms in the state’s ongoing transformation.

“Their work speaks volumes, and we deeply appreciate the professionalism they bring.”

He concluded by reaffirming the administration’s focus on impactful governance, transparency, and long-term development, saying, “Governor Alia remains committed to leaving a legacy of inclusive growth, good governance, and accountable service delivery.”

18/07/2025

Lecturer Dies in Hotel Room After ‘Hot Match’ With 200-Level Student in Kogi State

Dr. Olabode Abimbola Ibikunle — known as one of the strictest lecturers at Kogi State University, Anyigba — has passed away. And it reportedly happened in a hotel room.

According to reports, Dr. Ibikunle — a married man with children — checked into a hotel three days ago with a beautiful Ebira lady, who is a 200-level student of Social Studies Education.

Sources claim that the man filled his system with energy drinks, as though he was about to play in a Champions League final.

But unfortunately, just as the action started, it was said that the first round went well… but as the second round was about to begin, the man died.

An alarm was raised. The girl, who is currently in police custody, reportedly told authorities that she doesn’t know how Dr. Ibikunle died. However, police suspect foul play — they’re even questioning whether she may have poisoned him.

Meanwhile, students of Kogi State University are celebrating the death of one of their strictest lecturers. They’ve been trending the incident online with humorous captions.

Photos show what the students have been saying.

Credit: True Crime Tony
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18/07/2025

BENUE GOVT RATTLES ACHIEVEMENTS IN EDUCATION SECTOR, DISMISSES CRITICS.

The Benue State Government has defended Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia's education reforms, dismissing allegations of failure leveled against the administration by Prof. Dennis A. Ityavyar, former Commissioner for Education under ex Gov. Samuel Ortom.

In a press briefing at the Government House in Makurdi on Thursday, Chief Press Secretary Sir Tersoo Kula described Prof. Ityavyar's comments as "disturbing insinuations carved in backlashes" aimed at discrediting the government's progress in the education sector. According to Kula, "It is unfortunate that someone who presided over the rot in the education sector for eight years would now have the audacity to criticize a government that is focused on fixing the mess he left behind."

Kula highlighted several achievements of the Alia administration, including the establishment of the Benue State University of Science and Technology in Ihugh, which has received licensing, land, and funding, with construction already underway and principal officers appointed. He also mentioned the resolution of a long-standing industrial crisis involving university lecturers by paying 38 months' worth of earned allowances.

"We have boosted morale across the tertiary education system by paying 38 months' worth of earned allowances to university lecturers," Kula said. "Over 9,700 qualified teachers were recruited to revamp the state's primary schools, while 16 government colleges and secondary schools are currently undergoing full-scale rehabilitation."

Additionally, the Chief Press Secretary mentioned the renovation or reconstruction of 225 primary schools, many featuring multi-story classroom buildings.

He also highlighted the establishment of a Bureau for Quality Assurance, creation of an Engineering Faculty at the Moses Orshio Adasu University, and launch of a student insurance scheme in partnership with NICON Insurance.

The CPS further noted that the administration had paid bursary allowances of no less than ₦200,000 each to 181 law students across Nigerian law schools and provided full government sponsorship of WAEC, NECO, and NABTEB final year registration fees for over 18,000 students in public secondary schools.

Challenging critics to show evidence of similar progress during their tenure, Kula said, "Criticism is welcome, but it must be constructive, not wicked or rooted in sanctimonious grandstanding. This government will not be blackmailed into silence. Governor Alia is focused, and his eyes are on the ball."

Kula reaffirmed Gov. Alia administration's commitment to transparency, accountability, and delivering quality governance, calling on critics to compare "their eight years with our two years, and let the people judge."

17/07/2025

BENUE HUMANITARIAN CRISIS: AGATU LGC CHAIRMAN PUSHES FOR REHABILITATION OF DESTROYED STRUCTURES, APPEALS FOR FEDERAL GOVT'S SUPPORT.
.Lauds Gov. Alia's Commitment to Agatu Security..

As part of efforts to alleviate the plight of internally displaced persons (IDPs), the Agatu Local Government Council conducted a thorough 8-hour assessment of public structures ravaged by suspected Fulani herdsmen. The assessment, which covered 15 settlements in the Usha, ogwule kaduna, and ogwule Ogbaulu council ward of Agatu West, aims to inform the rehabilitation of critical infrastructure, paving the way for the safe return of IDPs to their homes.

During a comprehensive routine security assessment tour undertaken on Wednesday, the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Council, Hon. James Melvin Ejeh underscored the paramount importance of rehabilitation efforts in facilitating the return of internally displaced persons (IDPs) and fostering the overall development of the area. Emphasizing the council's unwavering commitment to this endeavour, Hon. Ejeh stated, "We are working assiduously to ensure that our people have unfettered access to fundamental infrastructure, including roads, schools, hospitals, markets, and chief palaces, which are indispensable for their safe and dignified return.

The firsthand return of displaced persons to their communities was witnessed during the routine security assessment. For instance, residents were seen returning to their homes, with some even resuming farm activities in the following settlements iwarri, London, ikpele 2, and Egwuma.

However, other communities, such as Ejima 1 and 2, Okpokpolo, Ogwumogbo, Ajomanchi, ogbai, and Akele, remain displaced due to the lack of basic infrastructure.

While extending his profound appreciation to Benue State Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia for his unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and security of the people of Agatu Local Government Council, thereby shielding them from attacks and all forms of violence, Hon. Ejeh emphasized that the populace requires fundamental infrastructure, including roads, schools, hospitals, commercial centers, and traditional leadership structures, to facilitate their safe and dignified return to rebuild their lives

He also thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his support but urged the federal government to do more to address the plight of Agatu people.

"The federal government needs to make deliberate efforts to address the plight of Agatu people. We need support in rebuilding our infrastructure, providing more security formations, and creating an enabling environment for our people to return and rebuild their lives," Hon. Ejeh appealed.

Hon. Ejeh commended the chief of defence Gen Christopher Musa, all the Service Chiefs and security operatives for maintaining peace in the local government area, and expressed confidence that his administration would secure the safe return of IDPs "We are committed to ensuring that our people are safe and secure. We will work with security agencies to create an enabling environment for our people to return and rebuild their lives," Hon. Ejeh said.

The chairman's efforts come after his administration successfully dislodged Armed herdsmen from Agatu lands, allowing displaced persons to return home and rebuild their lives. With the rehabilitation of destroyed structures and the provision of basic infrastructure, the Agatu Local Government Council is poised to restore normalcy and promote development in the affected communities.

As the humanitarian crisis in Agatu continues to unfold, the council's efforts to rehabilitate destroyed structures and provide basic infrastructure are crucial for the survival and dignity of IDPs. The federal government's support is essential in addressing the plight of Agatu people and ensuring that they can rebuild their lives in safety and security.

12/07/2025

BENUE:OMALE MARKS BIRTHDAY WITH CONGRATULATIONS FROM HON.ABO

The Benue State Commissioner of Information, Culture, and Tourism, Hon. Matthew Abo, has congratulated Hon. Dr. Ben Omale, the State Caretaker Chairman of APC, on his birthday. Hon. Abo described Omale's leadership style as "pragmatic," saying it "has brought unity, progress, and hope to the progressive family."

According to Hon. Abo, Omale's "hard work, dedication, and selflessness in contributing to the growth of APC in Benue State are no doubt catalysts to the massive development of state infrastructure and other critical developments we are recording in the state."

The Honourable Commissioner prayed for Omale's continued success, wishing him "greater grace, divine protection, and blessings in your life," as well as "wisdom, strength, long life, and a legacy that will endure through generations to come."

The Commissioner concluded his birthday message with warm wishes, saying, "Happy Birthday and many happy returns.

10/07/2025

TROOPS BAB NOTORIOUS MILITIA KINGPIN IN NASARAWA

Troops of the Nigerian Army have apprehended a wanted militia leader, Haruna Abdulhamid, during a sting operation in Gidan Waya in Nasarawa State.

A credible source told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that troops of the Sector II Operation Whirl Stroke deployed to Nasarawa Eggon, achieved the major breakthrough following a tip-off.

The source said that the suspect had been on wanted list of security agencies for his involvement in coordinated criminal activities, including attacks on communities, kidnapping and arms deal.

According to the source, Abdulhamid was arrested following credible human intelligence about his movement to collect cash as proceeds from one of his nefarious engagements.

“He is currently in custody and undergoing further investigation,” he said.

In the North East, he said the troops in conjunction with hunters and Hybrid Forces engaged terrorists during a fighting patrol to Pambula Village in Madagali Local Government Area of Adamawa.

He added that one terrorist was neutralised, while a weapon and four motorcycles abandoned by the terrorists were recovered.

The source further revealed that troops deployed in Bama Local Government Area of Borno engaged terrorists in a firefight, neutralised one, recovered weapons and destroyed terrorist hideouts and life support structures.

According to him, the sting operation also led to the surrender of three ISWAP/JAS family members, comprising an adult female and two minors,

“The troops also discovered a 40mm unexploded mortar bomb during a patrol along Damboa–Azir road in Damboa Local Government Area.

“The area was immediately cordoned off and the device safely recovered by an Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) team.

In the North West, the source said the troops of troops deployed in Kebbi State conducted a successful ambush operation at River Kaa following reports of cattle rustling by terrorists.

According to him, troops rescued six kidnapped victims and recovered four rustled cattle.

“In the South East, troops acting on credible information arrested a suspected member of the Eastern Security Network (ESN) at a checkpoint in Ehime Mbano Local Government Area of Imo.

“The suspect is linked to past attacks on security personnel and infrastructure.

“He is being interrogation interrogated and providing useful information to the security agencies,” he added.

In the South-South, he said the troops of 34 Artillery Brigade and 197 Special Forces Battalion uncovered an illegal refining site containing 60 cooking drums with about 15,000 litres of stolen crude oil, as well as reservoirs with illegally refined petroleum products.

He said the illegal infrastructure was dismantled in accordance with Operation Delta Safe directives.

He added that troops of 3 Battalion in collaboration with Tantita Security Services intercepted boats transporting 1,720 litres of suspected illegally refined petroleum products along Jeddo Waterways in Warri South Local Government Area of Delta.

“The suspects fled on sighting troops, and the recovered items were appropriately handled.

“The Nigerian army remains committed to safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and ensuring the safety of citizens through aggressive and coordinated operations across all theatres,” the source added.

09/07/2025

ADC Has Been Adopted as Platform for Credible Opposition — Suswam

Former Benue State Governor and Senator, Gabriel Suswam, has declared that Nigerians have embraced the African Democratic Congress (ADC) as a credible platform to mount a meaningful opposition against the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Senator Suswam made this assertion while briefing elders of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Tuesday at the Makurdi residence of Rt. Hon. Terngu Tsegba, Chairman of the Benue State Steering Committee of the National Coalition Movement.

The meeting, attended by five elders drawn from each of the 23 local government areas of the state, was held in preparation for the official unveiling of the ADC to the people of Benue.

Suswam told the gathering that the ADC, like the PDP before it, is now being handed over to the people to own, grow, and drive forward.

"In the same way PDP was handed to the local people, the ADC is hereby given to the people for full ownership. It is now their platform," he said.

He urged stakeholders to exercise caution and avoid imposing their views, emphasizing the need to allow people the freedom to express themselves within the new political structure.

The former governor also called for a revival of the winning spirit that once propelled the PDP to success, saying such energy should be cultivated within the ADC.

“Joining the ADC is a matter of choice and not by coercion,” Suswam stressed.

The African Democratic Congress is set to be officially unveiled in Benue State in the coming days as part of a broader effort to realign opposition forces ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Benue State Network News.

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