George Okoh in Makurdi

No fewer than 100 persons were feared killed by gunmen suspected to be herdsmen who invaded Yelewata and Daudu communities in Guma Local Government Area (LGA) of Benue State.

This latest attack, which lasted from Friday night till the early hours of yesterday, came barely 48 hours after two communities –  Mtswenem and Akondotyough Bawa in Makurdi LGA were attacked and 25 people killed.

Yelwata is a border town between Nasarawa and Benue states and less than 40 minutes’ drive from Makurdi, the state capital.

A resident of Yelewata town, who did not want his name in print, said the attackers invaded the community around 10 p.m. on Friday and operated unchallenged till the early hours of yesterday.

According to him, the invaders stormed Yelewata in their numbers from two fronts, overpowered the youths and the police personnel who stood up against them and opened fire on defenceless Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who were taking refuge in market stalls and the community members.
While the attack on Yelewata was ongoing, another set of marauders besieged Daudu, in the same Guma LGA.

However, they reportedly met strong resistance from the youths and security personnel, leading to the unfortunate death of some of the security personnel.
A community leader in Yelewata and former acting Chairman of the Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Mr. Matthew Mnyan, who held back emotions as he spoke, said it was another dark day for the people of Yelewata, Daudu, Guma LGA, and the entire state.

He said: “It started last night at about 11 pm when Fulani terrorists came from the Western part of the Yelewata and started shooting. So, the policemen and young people who were there tried to engage them. Suddenly, another group came from the Eastern part of the community, and they overran those trying to resist them.

“They killed our people, poured petrol on the stalls in the market, and burnt them.

“As of now, from the names they are putting together, and the number of families and people that were burnt and killed are running to over 200 now. They killed and burnt people in the houses. They will pour petrol and burn the whole place where people are sleeping. We had a family of 15, some families of 12, men with their two wives, and children, and every one of them burnt. It is a terrible sight.

“I have asked them to search for the families and put the names together because some have been burned to ashes. Those who were rushed to the hospital were up to 46. So far, I learnt that about 20 have died and we are still putting the reports together.”

“For over one week we received reports from Nasarawa State that the terrorists planned to attack Yelewata, Ukoho, Ortese, Yogbo, and Daudu. So, they are moving to attack these places simultaneously.

“Fortunately, that same day, the ones at Daudu were dislodged, and we learnt five soldiers and police personnel were killed sadly. From the information I received, I think one of them was of the rank of a Captain.

“We learnt more than 300 terrorists were camped close to Daudu.

“It is heartbreaking; everybody is aware that the people want to take over Benue State. There are no two ways about it. They only want to grab the land.
“If you go to the east side of Yelewata, Fulanis have taken over the land and given it to some of their people to be farming. And they do not want anybody to go there. So, this is a planned issue that is being executed. It was a coordinated and well-organised attack, which is why some came from the eastern part and some from the western part to execute the attack to make sure they bring the place down,” he explained.

Also, the President of the Association of United Farmers Benue Valley (AUFBV), Chief Dennis Gbongbon who also lamented the carnage, blamed it on those he called “Lakurawa bandits.”

Gbongbon said the association received the report of “the very disturbing security threat to Tiv farmers in Yelewata community of Guma LGA, as suspected Lakurawa bandits and herders killed over 62 IDPs, and farmers and houses were burnt with families beyond imagination.

Reacting, the Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor on Internal Security, Chief Joseph Har, who confirmed the development, said: “I cannot give an exact account of it because I am not there physically, but I am aware that this ugly thing happened yesterday in Yelwata and at the back of Daudu. They were two different attacks. I cannot give the exact numbers because I do not have the details.”

A spokesperson for Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Lt. Zubair Ahmad, said he was still verifying the incident and promised to revert.

Confirming the attacks, Benue State Police Command Public Relations Officer, DSP, Udeme Edet, said some of the attackers also lost their lives during the attack.
 She said: “According to our information, it happened in the early hours of today (Saturday) when suspected bandits invaded Yelwata town.

“The police and tactical teams posted to the town and reinforcement responded swiftly to the attack and engaged the attackers in a fierce exchange and unfortunately some of the attackers were killed in the process.

“But it’s with great sadness that we report that some individuals lost their lives and others sustained injuries,” she added.

The PPRO, who did not give the casualty figures, said the police have not relented and assured the people of the state that they would continue in pursuit of the attackers to keep the people of the state safe.

Meanwhile, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, has expressed deep anguish over the wave of deadly attacks in the state, describing it as “a national emergency that demands immediate attention and decisive action.”

In a statement yesterday, Atiku condemned the fresh spate of killings that targeted defenceless rural communities, calling for urgent intervention from both the federal government and Benue State authorities.

“I am deeply anguished and shocked by the devastating news of the fresh attacks in Benue State, where over 100 innocent lives are feared lost,” he said. “These killings, once again targeting defenceless communities, underscore the escalating insecurity crisis facing our nation.”

The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said the tragedy reflects the worsening insecurity in the country and the human cost of government inaction, urging that Nigeria must pause and reflect on the “mounting human toll of this senseless violence.

“Words cannot adequately express the sorrow felt by those left widowed, orphaned, or displaced,” he added, offering prayers and condolences to the bereaved families and affected communities.

George Okoh in Makurdi

A leading energy company HIGHLAND ENERGY has announced plans to collaborate with the Benue State Government on the development of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) stations aimed at meeting the state’s growing industrial and commercial energy needs.

Speaking on the development at the Benue International Investment and Economic Summit on Sunday, the CEO of HIGHLAND LNG, Oga Adejo-Ogiri, expressed the company’s readiness to partner the government to accelerate the adoption of gas as the preferred fuel for transportation, industry, and commerce across the state.

“Benue State’s drive to make gas the fuel of choice is not only commendable, but also presents an exciting opportunity for investment in clean, sustainable energy infrastructure,” he stated.

As part of the partnership, HIGHLAND LNG plans to site a Liquefied Compressed Natural Gas (L-CNG) station in Makurdi, the state capital, to serve the transport and industrial sectors.

The company is also exploring the possibility of establishing a CNG mother station in the state to further deepen gas penetration and support local distribution.

HIGHLAND LNG is currently developing its flagship mini-LNG plant in Ajaokuta, Kogi State, in partnership with the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) through its subsidiary, NNPC Gas Marketing Company.

The facility which will commence operations with a capacity of 10 million standard cubic feet per day, is designed to scale based on demand and will be supplied with feedstock via the Oben-Ajaokuta gas pipeline.

With Makurdi located less than 200 kilometers from Ajaokuta, HIGHLAND LNG sees a clear path to delivering consistent, trucked LNG supply to Benue State.

“The market has already shown viable demand, with existing players serving industrial and commercial users. Our presence will strengthen supply reliability and help revive industrial clusters and agro-processing zones across the region,” the CEO added.

HIGHLAND LNG’s mission is to expand energy access for underserved regions across Nigeria who are not served by Nigeria’s limited gas pipeline infrastructure.

Through strategic infrastructure and partnerships, the company aims to ensure Benue State and other locations across Nigeria have access to all the energy resources they need to power growth, innovation, and prosperity.

George Okoh in Makurdi

Irate youths, yesterday, embarked on protest and burnt down the Gwer West Local Government secretariat located in Naka area of the state.

The setting ablaze of the secretariat came barely a few hours after the news of the murder of three youths, who were said to be members of the state protection guards, filtered into the town.

A source in Naka said the youths numbering over 100 invaded the secretariat shortly after they recovered the dead bodies of the three youths and brought them to Naka, heads of the local government area.

The source also said the irate youths equally proceeded to the palace of Ter Nagi, chief Daniel Abomtse and burnt down the palace before moving on to set ablaze a hotel belonging to the senator representing Benue Northwest senatorial district, senator Titus Zam.

The executive chairman of  Gwer West local government council, Mr. Victor Ormin confirmed the incident, saying the irate youths truly burnt down the local government secretariat and the Ter Naka palace.

Mr. Ormin told newsmen on phone that the killing of three members of the protection guards triggered the protest, adding that when dead bodies were brought into Naka town, the youths went wide.

“Yes, they burned down the secretariat and the Ter Naka palace. Three protection guards were killed in Garuwa so when their bodies were brought to Naka, it sparked protest from the youth and it’s now being taken over by hoodlums,” the chairman stated.

Special Adviser to Benue State Government on Security, also confirmed the incident, stating that the situation has been brought under control.

He said security men have been deployed to scenes of the incidents

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, however, condemned the vicious attack and murder of three Civil Protection Guards.

The attack, believed to have been carried out by marauding armed herdsmen, he said was a flagrant affront to the peace and security of the communities.

 Alia expressed his appreciation for the deep rage and frustration felt by the people, which led to anxiety at Naka, the headquarters of Gwer-West.

He advocated restraint and foresight in channeling this anger, emphasising that destruction of property only served to frustrate government’s intentions to build peace and security in the state.

He urged all security organs to intensify their efforts in detecting and capturing the perpetrators of this heinous atrocity, saying the security of residents was paramount, and his government would not rest until those culpable for this violence were held liable.

George Okoh in Makurdi

A community-based group, Forum of Tyoshim Academics (FoTA), has decried the incessant bandit attacks on the Tyoshim community of Gwer-West Local Government Area of Benue State even as it urged the federal and state governments to intensify efforts to protect their lives and property.

The group made the call yesterday after an attack on the Tyoshim community that led to a blood bath.

This was contained in a statement on behalf of the forum, signed by the National President, Prof. Patrick Ukase, and the National Publicity Secretary, Prof. John Anja.

According to the statement: “Today marks another day of mourning, another black day etched in the hearts of our community. The relentless wave of violence continues as suspected Fulani armed herders have, once more, unleashed terror on our people—this time along the Naka-Makurdi Road. The lives of five innocent souls, desperately taken to a clinic for treatment, have tragically slipped away, their cries unheard. Others lie in agony, fighting for their lives, yet the true number of those attacked remains unknown.

“Since 2011, the toll of this violence has been staggering. Between 2011 and 2017, 192 sons and daughters of Tyoshin were gruesomely murdered by herders. From 2018 to 2023, the numbers escalated, with 302 more lives lost in the area. This year alone, 17 individuals have been mercilessly hacked down by these herders. These figures do not include those who have disappeared and have not been seen since 2011. In all, we have lost over 511 lives to this relentless onslaught.

“Tyoshin land is bleeding, its cries drowned in the deafening silence of indifference. Our villages, our homes, and our very existence have been under siege for too long. Nine council wards of the Gwer-West Local Government Area have already fallen into the hands of these ruthless attackers.

“Today’s tragedy is but a grim continuation of a war that has ravaged our land, leaving us shattered and broken. Just days ago, the blood of our brothers and sisters was spilled in Camp-Nagi, Mbachohon, where three more were brutally murdered.

“Yet, in the face of this terror, the silence from those sworn to protect us is deafening. The Tyoshin people are abandoned and forsaken by the very government that should shield them. The federal government and the Benue State Government remain disturbingly quiet, their inaction a haunting reminder of how alone we truly are. Even the military presence, meant to offer protection, stands idle as the bloodbath continues.
“Our people fall, one by one, as these attackers roam freely, unchallenged and unafraid.”

The group pleaded with President Bola Tinubu, and the Governor of Benue State, Mr. Hyacinth Alia, to come to the rescue of the people of Tyoshin.

George Okoh in Makurdi

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday commended the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, for his exceptional contribution to the development of the country.

The president also assured the people of Benue State that he will continue to stand by Akume for serving him and Nigeria well.

The president stated this in Makurdi, at the Catholic Youth Center where he attended the solemnization of Holy Matrimony between the nephew to the SGF, Mr. Henry Akume and Mrs. Opeyemi Adepoju.

The president, represented at the occasion by Mallam Nuhu Ribadu, the National Security Adviser, in his address extolled the leadership qualities of the SGF acknowledging the quality of his contributions to his administration.

Adding that he is an accomplished Nigerian who has risen through the ranks of the civil service to politics where he served as governor for two terms, three terms as Senator, a Minister and now SGF.

His words: “Sen. Akume is my friend, my colleague and my brother. Tell the world that we will not only stand by him but will continue to be with him”.

Also, the Deputy Senate President, Sen. Jibrin Barau, who represented the Senate President Godswill Akpabio, extolled the qualities of Sen. Akume as a selfless leader not only in Benue State but in North Central Nigeria and pledged their unalloyed support to his leadership.
He congratulated the couple on their wedding and beseeched God for a blissful union.

In his remarks, Sen. Akume thanked President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all who came to celebrate with his family, promising he is committed to work with President Tinubu to better the lives of all Nigerians.

Later, at the wedding reception which held at City Bay Park, the Minister of Steel Development, Hon. Shuaibu Audu, urged the couple to love one another and avoid third parties in their marriage.

He expressed confidence in the ability of their father, Sen. Akume, to provide proper guidance to enable the success of their wedding and expressed support to the SGF’s leadership in the North Central Region.

Dignitaries present at the occasion included the Chief Judge of Benue State Justice Maurice Ikpambese, President Customary Court of Appeal, Justice Cosmos Idye, former Minister of Youth and Sports, Hon. Sunday Dare and Deputy Governor of Benue State, Sam Ode.

Others included former Attorney General of the Federation and Minister for Justice, Chief Michael Kaase Aondokaa SAN, Executive Director Housing Finance and Account, Federal Housing Authority, Dr Mathias Terwase Byuan, Hon. Mrs. Regina Akume JP, Member Representing Gboko/Tarka Federal Constituency, Dr. Asema Achado and Member Representing Gwer Gwer-West Federal Constituency.

Other dignitaries also included Hon. Sesoo Gboko, Member Representing Vandeikya/Konshisha Federal Constituency, Hon. Dickson Tarkighir, Member Representing Makurdi/Guma Federal Constituency, Hon. Sekav Iortyom, Member Representing Buruku Federal Constituency, Hon. Phillip Agbese, Member Representing Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency and Hon Terseer Ugbor, Member Representing Kwande/Ushongo Federal Constituency and tradition rulers, among others.

Also in attendance were members of the Benue APC State Executive Committee led by the State Chairman Hon. Austin Agada, Honorable Members of the Benue State House of Assembly, Members of the diplomatic corps, Captains of Industries and other dignitaries.

George Okoh in Makurdi

The leadership of All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA),the People Democratic Party (PDP) and others, have rejected and  called for immediate reconciliation of the controversial local government election in Benue State, held last weekend.

But the Benue State government has  highlight the remarkable achievements of the process, as well as the positive changes ushered in by the current administration under Governor Hyacinth Alia.

The Benue State Chairman of APGA, Comrade Joseph Ogli,in a statement on Monday  denounced the 100 per cent victory claimed by the All Progressive Congress (APC), calling it “a shame and embarrassment.”

He criticized the BSIEC for alleged irregularities, including candidates being forced to pay large sums of money.

Similarly, the PDP in Benue State, has condemned and rejected result of the local government polls, describing it as a ‘charade’.

The party in a press statement by its new Publicity Secretary, Tim Nyor, noted that the travesty and facade that unfolded on 5th October, 2024, in the name of local government elections in the state was characterised by numerous well-documented incidences of irregularities, including the shocking non-deployment of election officials or electoral materials to polling units across the state.

PDP said in few areas where some semblance of the charade was orchestrated by the APC-led administration, evidence erupted everywhere, including media space, of ballot stuffing and mass thumb-printing of ballots.

Also reacting to the poll, the  Senate Minority Leader, Comrade Abba Moro, rejected the election and described it as a sham and an insult to democracy.

The senator representing Benue South Senatorial District, said in a statement by his media aide, Emmanuel Eche’Ofun John, that reports from polling units across his senatorial district indicated that elections did not hold.

According to him, election materials and officials of the Benue State Independent Electoral Commission, BSIEC “were not seen anywhere except in the premises of APC leaders where ballots were thumb-printed for their candidates.”

The only Chairmanship Candidate of APGA in Agatu Local Government, Rev Mrs. Azumi Elaigwu, also condemned the lack of transparency in the electoral process and vows to uphold democratic principles.

“The traditional process in Nigeria for Local Government elections has been disrupted in Benue State by Reverend Father Alia. He promised a credible election and invited all political parties to participate but see what came out of it. Sad,” she said.

But, according to the Deputy Governor, Mr. Sam Ode, in a press release by his media aide, Ior Ikyereve, contrary to Moro’s claims, the elections were conducted transparently and in strict accordance with democratic principles and extant electoral laws.

He said the  conduct of the elections reflects the commitment to uphold the integrity of  democratic institutions, ensuring that the voices of the people were heard loud and clear.

“It is noteworthy that Senator Moro’s party has had its own history of hijacking local government elections in the past. It is surprising that he would expect the current administration, under Governor Hyacinth Alia, to engage in such undemocratic practices.

“The Alia administration is committed to a foundational transformation of governance in Benue State, moving away from past injustices towards a more honourable political culture,” he said.

George Okoh in Makurdi

The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Benue State has deepened, as the party stakeholders known as G-14 have informed the former governor of the state, Senator Gabriel Suswam, to resign his membership of the group if he so desired.

The G-14 was formed in 2015 and comprises PDP elders in the 14 local government areas of the Tiv ethnic block in the state with Suswam as co-chairman of the group.

The former governor had at a party stakeholders’ meeting held in Makurdi last week announced that he had disbanded the group and promised to replace it with another group to be known as caucus members of the party with its members cut across the state.

The decision of the former governor to disband the G-14 may not be unconnected with the battle of supremacy between him and his successor, former Governor Samuel Ortom, over who controls the party in the state, which started during the ward congress.

Since Ortom left office in 2023, he has assumed the co-chairman of the G-14.

Responding to Suswam’s announcement, the chairman of G-14, Laha Dzever, said the group is a voluntary, non-statutory body functioning in the PDP, and seeking to complement the work of the statutory organs of the party towards fostering unity, harmony and its continual growth.

In a statement issued yesterday, entitled ‘G-14 Remains Intact and Committed to PDP,’ Dzever argued that the “G-14, by its nature and formative history, is not in the ownership of any individual and thus cannot be so disbanded as Senator Suswam claimed to have done.

“Senator Suswam as a member of the G-14 can only resign his membership if he so desires but has no locus standi whatsoever to disband it.”

Narrating how the group was formed, Dzever said: “When the PDP lost the governorship and Benue North- east and North-West Senatorial seats in 2015, the party was virtually in disarray. It was then that a group of elders led by Hon. Elder Ugba Uye in their wisdom formed the G-14 to save the party from eventual disintegration. Senator Suwam was also invited to join the group which he gladly obliged.

“That as is the established tradition, the Co-chairmanship status of the group rightly fell on His Excellency, Chief Samuel Ortom when he emerged as the leader of the PDP in 2018, and Chief Ortom remains the leader of PDP in Benue State and has since functioned in that capacity with utmost sense of responsibility and statesmanship.

“This remains to date the leadership structure operational in G-14 and the status of the group remains unchanged as a voluntary group of party elders drawn from the 14 local government areas of the Benue North-East (Zone ‘A’) and Benue North-west (Zone ‘B’). As elder statesmen and women of integrity in the PDP, we are mindful of the unfortunate circumstances of the crises, which have fallen to a lot of our dear great party, PDP, lately, and do see a need now, as we saw in 2015 when we lost the governorship and two Senate seats to the APC.

“The G-14 stood firmly and worked tirelessly and brought PDP back to power in 2019. The G-14 would therefore not relent in its efforts in rebuilding the party to reclaim power in 2027. It is our strong desire to continue to strengthen the common bonds which hold us together as a political family. We will at all times, tow the path of peace and oneness of purpose in the party. We are aware of Senator Suswam’s contributions to this great party, the PDP, and as elders, we understand the pressures which the current crises in our party have occasioned on its leaders, Senator Suswam, inclusive.

“We, therefore, understand that he might have made such remarks purporting to disband G-14 without thinking clearly enough through them. Under different circumstances, Senator Suswam as a lawyer, will be mindful that he is not either the PDP state Chairman or the National Chairman of PDP and he is not in a position to disband G-14 but only has the right to resign his membership of the group as earlier stated.”

George Okoh in Makurdi go

Chairman, ������Ƶ/Arise Media Group, Prince Nduka Obaigbena, has canvassed for a 25 per cent allocation of national budget to defence and national security.

Obaigbena made the call Thursday in Makurdi, Benue State, at the third quarter 2024 Media Chat organised by the Nigerian Army Civil-Military Cooperation, where he was the Special Guest of Honour.

Obaigbena, while acknowledging the role of the Nigerian Army (NA) and the Nigerian Armed Forces in general in the nation’s security, said: “We have to ensure that the Armed Forces are properly funded. I call for at least 25 per cent of our national budget for national security and for the Armed Forces, and that budget will include technology.

“The world we face today, we have a national satellite company. We have all sorts of agencies in Science and Technology. Are they working with the Armed Forces? Have we integrated our satellite capabilities with our war in the North-east or North-west? Do we know and monitor bandits in Kaduna?”

He said Nigeria spends so much money on national security, satellite technology and across board, adding that there is need to look at national security as a whole government approach.

“We have to have the entire tech infrastructure combined with the Army. The Army has to produce its own weapons. We used to have a vibrant defence industry. Is it still on? Why are we importing bullets? Why are we importing arms — Ak47 — and the like?

“We have to integrate our whole defence technological infrastructure with our defence infrastructure to keep us save and protect Nigeria from the new world order.

“Nobody knows what’s going to happen with crises in the Middle East, in Ukraine and a possibility of a Trump presidency, are we ready? Are we ready to keep our peace and get ourselves going?”

He also said the Federal Government needs to budget another 25 per cent for education, especially in the north.

According to him, “We also need another 25 per cent for education, especially in the north, where we have to get our people educated.

“We also need another 25 per cent for health and poverty. We have to support the most vulnerable in our midst.”

Obaigbena added that there’s need to reduce taxes across board and put people’s money in their hands, saying: “They will grow their own food and find their own transport and they will sort themselves out.”

According to him, “The media is your friend. Most times when you leave office, the media becomes your friend but with what is happening in Sudan, Egypt, Ethiopia Central African Republic. Rwanda, Angola Mozambique, Libya, Niger and Burkina Faso, we can say boldly that the Nigerian Armed Forces have done well. Peace is necessary and our soldiers sacrifice their lives.”

He noted that those who come to power to stifle the media must understand that when they leave power, they will fall back on the media for help.

He, however, admonished the military, saying: “Stop getting involved in arresting protesters; arrest kidnappers. Good governance will stop protests, but kidnappers have to face the wrath of the law.

“Stop getting involved with election riggers. We need proper elections for governments to be held accountable.”

The Chief of Army Staff (CAS), Lieutenant General Taoreed Abiodun Lagbaja, has urged media practitioners to uphold responsibility, accuracy and fairness in reporting the activities of the Nigerian Army, by balancing national security interests with the public’s right to information and avoid spreading misinformation or inflammatory content that could undermine national unity and security.

According to Lagbaja, who was represented by Maj. Gen. Hilary Nzan, Commander, Four SF Command Doma, “As the Nigerian Army continues to confront the numerous security challenges facing our nation through deliberate kinetic and non-kinetic operations, it is crucial for all patriotic citizens and stakeholders to actively participate in our collective efforts towards a secure and safe nation.”

George Okoh in Makurdi

The Benue State government is set to implement the Benue State Safe School and validation of the Standard Operating Procedure for students in Benue schools.

Governor Hycinth Alia disclosed this at a one-day sensitisation programme on the Safe School initiative held recently at the School of Health Sciences Benue State University.

He said the initiative was born out of the need to protect schools from violence, abduction, and other forms of attacks that have become rampant in Nigeria. 

He said in 2014, the Boko Haram insurgency led to the abduction of over 270 schoolgirls in Chibok, Borno State, adding that the incident highlighted the vulnerability of schools in Nigeria and the need for urgent action to ensure the safety and security of children in schools.  

According to Alia, Nigeria was amongst the 37 countries that joined the Safe Schools Declaration when it first opened for endorsement in 2015 and has since been domesticated, which underscores goverment’s full committment to ensure safety in schools across the nation.

“The Benue State Government is committed to the realisation of the Safe School policy in our state. We recognise that education is a fundamental right and a key driver of development and our administration has made significant investments in education already and is still committed to do more.

He added that Benue’s commitment to safe schools is unwavering, which is why there is a budget allocation already captured for Safe School funding. 

“We have established a Safe School Committee, which comprises representatives from various stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organisations, and security agencies. This committee is responsible for developing and implementing the Standard Operating Procedure for Safe Schools in Benue State.

“Today’s event marks a significant milestone in our journey towards ensuring that our schools are safe and secure. We are sensitizing our stakeholders on the importance of Safe Schools and validating the Standard Operating Procedure for implementation,” the governor said.

He promised that government will work tirelessly with all stakeholders to ensure that children can learn in a peaceful and conducive environment.

The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Fredrick Ikyaan said the state government is committed to providing a conducive learning environment for its students.

He stated that the sensitisation programme is a significant step towards achieving that goal.

He described the safe school initiative as a comprehensive approach that involves all stakeholders, including government agencies, schools, parents, traditional leaders, PTAs and communities.

The commissioner added that the state government has invested in developing the State Security Rapid Response Centre which is under construction.

He said the programme was a crucial step in validating the Standard Operating Procedure for Safe Schools in the state.

George Okoh in Makurdi

Vice President Kashim Shetima has said the Benue Fashion and ICT Hub is the  federal government’s desire for industrialisation, describing  it as the biggest in the country.

He therefore called  on the government to ensure the hub becomes a reference point in the country.

The vice president, who was  represented by the Deputy Chief of staff to the President, Senator Ibrahim Hassan Hadejia, at  inauguration of the Fashion and ICT Hub as well as the remodeled Benue Printing House  yesterday in Makurdi, commended Governor Hycinth Alia for his commitment towards the success of the SMEs clinic in the state.

While appreciating the Alia-led government for its collaboration to ensure the success of the fashion hub and for his determination to deliver good governance to the people of the state, he promised to deploy monogram machines and other support as requested by the governor.

In his address, Alia  said the  Fashion and ICT Hub will serve as catalyst for growth and development, describing the project as an embodiment of President Bola Tinubu led administration’s collective vision for a prosperous, creative and empowered Benue State.

The governor appreciated the Ahmed Bola Tinubu led federal government for the gift of the fashion hub, saying it will serve as a cornerstone for his administration’s agenda to promote creativity, harness talents, foster innovation, create employment and provide opportunities for the people of the state. 

“The project is designed to harness the abundant talents of our youth and transform them into thriving enterprises that will contribute significantly in building our economy.

“Today’s world is dynamic and ever-changing and we in Benue cannot be left behind. This is why we are delighted to have you here today to fulfill a promise you made to the people at the first Expanded National MSME Clinics in January this year. You gave us your word and today, Your Excellency, you have honoured us again in fulfillment of that promise.”

The governor further described the inauguration  of the fashion hub as an indication that the government is not only expanding the labour market, but also supporting the skills required, promising that the underutilised resources of the state will be fully diversified in line with the industrialisation agenda of the current administration, leveraging on the abundant talents that are available in the state.

He assured  the people that the hub would serve as a catalyst for growth and development,  not only in Benue State but across the entire middle belt region, reiterating the commitment of his administration to ensure the project fulfills its purpose of empowering the people and contributing to the socio-economic transformation of Benue state.

Also speaking, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Investment, Doris Uzoka-Anite, commended Governor Alia for his commitment towards the wellbeing of the people of the state, adding that his efforts have added to the President’s industrialization agenda aimed at driving job creation.

Also in his address, the Minister for Water Resources, Prof. Joseph Utse, appreciated the federal and state governments for the partnership to establish the fashion hub, promising his ministry’s determination to ensure safe water for all the citizens of Nigeria.

On their part, the Honourable Commissioner for Trade and Investment, Hon. Alumo Orpin; Senior Special Assistant to the Vice President on Job Creation and SMEs , Hon. Tola Adekunle Johnson as well as the Special Adviser to the Governor on Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Hon. Fidelis Unongo, all appreciated the federal and state government for their collaborative efforts to ensure job creation, saying it is an avenue to keep many youths off the streets, properly engaging them with a means of livelihood. 

George Okoh in Makurdi

A father of one of the students abducted by gunmen in Benue State has appealed for the release of his son and 19 others seven days after 20 medical students and their house officer from the University of Maiduguri and University of Jos were abducted in Benue State last week.

The father appealed to the kidnappers to release the students unharmed to enable them return to school.

A retiree, Mr. Kwaghaondona Fagar, the father of one of the abducted students made the appeal at his residence in Makurdi, while calling for the release of the abducted medical and dental students held hostage.

The pensioner, who cited the difficulty most parents are going through during this economic challenges to source the ransom of N50 million as unbearable particularly as many of the parents are widows and widower yet to pay school (medical) fees of their respect children.

The retiree who lamented that since his retirement in January 17, 2013, from the state civil service till date, he has not received his gratuity except for the monthly pension which the new administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia has started paying, calling on both the federal and state government and other well-meaning Nigerians to assist the families to ensure the freedom of all the affected victims during this trial times before the kidnappers carry out their threat of killing the students one after another.

Fagar explained that life has become difficult for him and his family to feed as he has sold his two vehicles and other belongings to pay the school fees of his son in medical school at the University of Jos, stating that with the current situation, “how do I get the money to rescue my son in captivity with others.” 

“I have been looking round with my wife to source the sum of two point five million naira as my share of the money to pay, it has been difficulty.

“All the parent are communicating and sourcing for the ransom to pay, we are all on a platform making serious effort, the money is not complete yet, and my son called two days ago and pleaded that I should look for money, as they have been starving, with no food or water.”

George Okoh in Makurdi

The crisis rocking the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) continued unabated with the group under the aegis of G14, in the Benue state chapter of the party passing a vote of confidence on the Amb. Umar Damagum-led National Working Committee (NWC).

It equally praised the leadership qualities of former governor, Samuel Ortom and Senate Minority Leader, Senator Abba Moro, which took the party to its great level in Benue state.

At a press conference in Makurdi yesterday, the leader of G14, Dr Laha Dzever, noted that peace, unity and respect for constituted authority must be placed above other considerations to move the PDP family forward.

The G14 acknowledged challenges arising from the conduct of the ongoing elective Congresses to put Executive structures for the party in the state.

“We observed that those challenges, on the positive side, highlight the viability of our great party and its attractiveness to the people, giving rise to the intensity of aspirants for executive positions on its platform.”

Doctor Dzever expressed gratitude to the NWC under the acting chairman, Amb. Umar Damagum, for the direction and support given to Benue PDP through the congresses, conducted thus far.

 The G14 also appreciated the NWC for the deployment of committees which conducted the ward congresses and Appeal Panel which attended to petitions that arose from the exercise and delivered a firm and impartial justice to petitions.

 The group believes that the AVM Napoleon Bali-led caretaker committee would do what is right and pledge support and loyalty to their authority to succeed in their assignment in the state.

According to Dr Dzever, the exercise for the local government congresses, which was held in 17 out of the 23 local government areas in Benue state went on successfully, while 6 others are yet to be conducted, pending the determination of a legal action brought by some members of the party.

He called for members to close ranks in order to prepare ahead of the 2027 general election.

In their separate remarks, Mr William Ortyom, who spoke on behalf of the Benue State House of Assembly PDP caucus, described the unity of the party as paramount and commended the G14 for the step towards resolving issues.

Also speaking, Chief Mrs Veronica Gajir, who spoke for women all sued for peace within the ranks of the party in the state.

They also called for the cease of media war by members that turn to portray PDP as a crisis-ridden organisation,  saying the youth are ready to learn from their elder’s wisdom in conflict resolution which is dialogue.

George Okoh in Makurdi

The Executive Chairman of Benue State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Dr. Grace Adagba, has called on education secretaries and Early Childhood Care Development Education (ECCDE) desk officers from the 23 Local Government Education Authorities to rejuvenate early childhood education programmes in all public primary schools across the state.

During a meeting at the board recently, Adagba emphasised the importance of ECCDE in laying a solid foundation for future learning and underscored the need for improved educational opportunities for Benue children. She urged the education secretaries to actively publicise the board’s innovative efforts to establish ECCDE centres in all public schools.

Highlighting a recent directive from the Universal Basic Education Commission (UBEC), Adagba mandated the establishment of ECCDE centres in all public schools. She also directed that headteachers begin admitting children aged two to five into ECCDE classes starting from the next academic session.

To ensure the successful implementation of these directives, Adagba charged the education secretaries to convene emergency meetings with headteachers to sensitise them to the importance of ECCDE. She directed teachers to work during holidays to facilitate enrollment, admissions, and lesson plan preparations before the commencement of the new academic session.

She also urged the education secretaries to launch campaigns to promote public schools, highlighting the high standards and quality of education available in basic education schools. Adagba also suggested organising programmes such as quizzes and debates to showcase excellence and maintaining clean school environments to attract learners and parents.

She announced that SUBEB plans to conduct enrollment drive campaigns and sensitization programmes in the state’s three geopolitical zones. She encouraged the education secretaries to take full advantage of this initiative to enhance ECCDE implementation in their respective areas.

In response, the Agatu education secretary, Mrs. Helen Ameh and Desk Officer, ECCDE Ado LGEA, Mr. Brown Ochai, thanked Adagba for her efforts to revive the forgotten days of quality basic education and pledged their commitment to working hard to improve basic education in the state.

George Okoh in Makurdi

A group known as the Benue Progressives Patriot (BPP), led by former Speaker Pro Tempore of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt Hon Terngu Tsegba, has announced that the local government congresses of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) did not take place in Benue State.

Tsegba stated this  in Makurdi yesterday.

In the statement read by Tsegba, the group condemned the irregularities at the ward congresses, which they alleged were orchestrated by Samuel Ortom’s associates who conducted the congresses in private homes and fabricated results. The group stated that these results could not be accepted.

He emphasised that he was voicing the concerns of aggrieved party members in the state.

Chief Tsegba urged the National Secretariat of the PDP to annul the flawed exercise and ensure that the results from the various wards, approved by the local populace, are accepted and adopted before proceeding to the local government congresses.

He said: “Let it be known to the National Working Committee (NWC), National Executive Council (NEC), the Board of Trustees (BOT), and indeed to the entire world that the local government congresses of the PDP did not take place anywhere in Benue State. No one should fabricate any results for any state congresses in Benue and present them anywhere.

“We call on the NWC of our great party to discard the manufactured ward congress results they currently hold, and to collect and use the authentic results that are still at the Benue State PDP Secretariat before considering moving on to the local government congresses.”

“We also request that the NWC immediately reschedule and conduct congresses in the local governments where they did not occur.”

“We remain loyal and law-abiding members of the PDP and are committed to reclaiming the party from those bad elements among us who are bent on destroying it.”

The BPP also called on the NWC of the party to reschedule and conduct transparent congresses at both the ward and local government levels.

They reaffirmed their commitment to the principles of the PDP, despite provocations from elements aimed at disrupting the party.

In their separate speeches, Paul Ubwa, David Tsevende, Hon. Fanen Mondo, Aluashima Abari, and Dr. Jack Mulya stated unequivocally that Samuel Ortom, who has been a major beneficiary of the party despite his numerous shortcomings, should not be allowed to destroy the PDP.

They also criticised the Appeal Panel, led by Bode Ojo, for failing to address the grievances related to the ward congresses and called for reprimands against both the bad elements and the panel.

The BPP members agreed that any list coming from Sen. Abba Moro and Samuel Ortom would be rejected and strongly opposed unless the will of the people is respected at all levels.

George Okoh in Makurdi

Immediate past Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, has appealed to his supporters and those of Senator Gabriel Suswam, to sheathe their swords and work towards maintaining peace and unity within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in the state.

Ortom admitted that in politics, differing opinions and positions were inevitable, but the differences often served to deepen the democratic process and contribute to enriching discourses within political parties.

In a press statement by his media aide, Mr Tever Akase, in Makurdi, Ortom pointed out that he and Senator Suswam shared a long-standing friendship and mutual respect as leaders within the PDP and would always find amicable solutions to whatever political disagreements that mightarise, by prioritising the greater good of the party and its members.

He called on all stakeholders to remain committed and focused on the shared objectives and aspirations of PDP, as they have always done.

He commended PDP members in the 23 local government areas of Benue State for their peaceful conduct in the recently concluded Ward Congresses of the party and expects them to exhibit the same spirit during the forthcoming Local Government and State Congresses.

Ortom further urged the party members to support the State Caretaker Committee of the party set up by the National Working Committee, to enable it succeed in its assignment.

George Okoh in Makurdi

In a bizarre twist, the State Working Committee of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), Monday, suspended the former governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, for his choice of the Labour Party candidate in the 2023 election and his statement calling on Benue PDP to vote for APC in the 2027 Presidential election and Hon. Azua Ashongo for alleged gross insubordination and indiscipline.

In a statement signed by a media consultant to the party, Mr. Conilius Hwande, and released in Makurdi, added that the party’s working committee has equally suspended Chief Isaac Mffo and Bemgba Iortyom from the party.

The suspension of the duo, Hwande alleged, follows their involvement in the snatching of congress materials meant for the conduct of last Saturday’s ward congresses in Buruku and Ushongo Local Government Areas, respectively.

Hwande said the suspension takes effect from Friday, 2nd August 2024.

However, before Hwande’s statement, another statement from the State Publicity Secretary of the party, Mr. Bemgba Iyortyom, said the party has suspended three members of its State Working Committee from office for a period of one month with immediate effect.

The affected officials are State Chairman, John Ngbede; State Secretary, Joseph Nyam and State Organizing Secretary, Moses Audu.

The action was carried at an extraordinary meeting of the State Working Committee of the party on Saturday, 3rd August, 2024, at which 9 out of the 13 members were present and assented to the decision.

The suspended members are accused of forging and impersonating the State Working Committee to achieve their individual aims, instigating violence and crisis during the just concluded ward congresses of the party, and mismanagement of the finances of the party, among other things.

They have been directed to appear before the Disciplinary Committee of the party to answer to the charges brought against them within the period of their suspension.

He said the State Deputy Chairman, Isaac Mffo, is now the State Chairman of the PDP in Benue State in Acting capacity.

George Okoh in Makurdi

Operatives of  Benue State Police Command have declared  their  commitment to curb criminal activities across the state following the recent killing of six suspected bandits by its team.

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday by the state Police Command spokesperson, SP. Catherine Anene. She said following intelligence received about a bandit camp at Mbavuur ward, Logo Local Government Area, a team of Operation Zenda JTF stormed the camp and engaged the criminals in a gun duel.

According to her, “During the operation, six bandits were neutralised while others escaped. Their corpses were recovered and deposited at NKST Ugba morgue while the fleeing suspects are still being trailed.

“Items recovered from the scene included one AK-47 rifle and two locally fabricated short guns loaded with ammunition.”

Anene added that the police also trailed and arrested one Tersoo Dabo, 22, suspected of connections with robberies on Makurdi -Lafia road.

She said the suspect confessed to being part of a seven-man gang operating on the highway.

“Further investigation led to the arrest of one Martin Akunu, 37, of Udei town, the spiritual leader of the said gang, who fortified them before going out for operations.

“One locally made double barrel, 162 balls suspected to be local ammunition and gunpowder were found in his possession,” Anene said.

In a related development, the state Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has called on residents of the state and Nigerians to shelve the planned nationwide protest and share their concerns with the government.

He said the current administration under the leadership of President Bola Tinubu is doing its best.

Alia said: “Recall that August 1, 2024, has been mooted as the planned date for demonstration by unidentified groups across the country, who are citing hardship and bad governance as the reason for their protest.

“It is imperative for the planned protest to be shelved in the state and country, especially as the present government is trying its best to put smiles on the faces of the people.”

He commended Hassan Yabanet, the state commissioner of police, and the Department of State Services (DSS) for meeting with some union leaders in the state to dissuade them from joining the protest.

The governor said President Tinubu loves the people of Benue State and “places them highly in his plans.

 “All the projects his administration is currently executing across the state were as a result of the support the state is enjoying from the president.”

While commenting on the insecurity in the state, the governor described the Ukum crisis as “unfortunate,” adding that a committee of inquiry has been established to investigate the situation.

Alia alleged that “Abuja politicians are playing a major role in the ongoing militia attacks in Ukum,” adding that the previous administration had broken the trust between militiamen and the government.

The governor assured people of the state that insecurity would soon be a thing of the past.

George Okoh in Makurdi

10 people were killed by gunmen in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State in the early hours of yesterday. The gunmen were reported to have unleashed mayhem  on the Olegumachi community in Agatu and burnt down houses.

The attack, which  came barely four days after three people, including an aged couple were killed in the Ikpele community in the same local government.

According to a source,  the gunmen stormed Olegumachi Tuesday evening and operated  till yesterday  morning.

Confirming the incident to journalists  yesterday  in a telephone chat, the Chairman of the local government, Phillip Ebenyakwu, said that 10 people were killed and seven houses set ablaze.

The chairman said: “Yes, it’s confirmed.  There  was an attack. What they gave me is 10 (those killed)

“They (gunmen) were armed with sophisticated weapons, they were looting, robbing and burning houses and killed people.

“About seven houses were burnt down. They went away with many properties and animals such as goats and fowls.

Ebenyakwu said he had reported the incident to the police and the Department of State Security.

When contacted, the Police Public Relations Officer for the state command, Catherine Anene, said she was yet to get the report from the Divisional Police Officer in Agatu.

George Okoh in Makurdi

Suspected bandits have reportedly started to enforce tax and levy collections from the residents of Torough and neighbouring communities in Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

A resident of the community, who spoke on the condition of anonymity for fear of being attacked, said the bandits introduced a levy of N20 million as monthly tax to be paid by the community.

He explained that no one, including the village heads, dared challenge the authority of the armed gangs or report the matter to security agencies.

“We are more or less in bondage here. There is no complete freedom of movement, association or expression. These militia boys are very deadly and powerful here in our Sankera axis.

“The whole of the three LGAs in Sankera made up of Logo, Ukum and Katsina-Ala are affected by this madness. These boys have a very strong communication network for their business. They monitor everything.

“So, when the news about the N20 million came to us, nobody dared report to the security agencies. You and your family will be eliminated in broad daylight.

“We are paying the N50,000 levied each household. Some traditional compounds that have many households are levied N1million,” he said.

But the Caretaker Chairman of Ukum LGA, Mr Victor Iorzaa, confirmed the development to the newsmen in the state.

“It is true that bandits are taxing the people and are demanding N20 million. I have reported the matter to the police and also the State Security Council.

“The person behind is a bandit known as ‘Full Fire’. He was the person that connived with armed herdsmen recently to attack Tiv people. He has been working with armed herdsmen.

“The people are living in fear. That community is the most troubled place in the LGA. He started this shortly after he lost the attack on the community.

“And the place he stays is a community bordering Taraba State. If you remember two weeks ago, the military launched an attack on his house.

“The man has been terrorising the area for the past five years but the government of Governor Hyacinth Alia is working hard to put an end to their activities. And security operatives are also working hard in that regard.”

But reacting to the incident, Special Adviser to the Governor on Internal Security, Joseph Har, said the bandits were already on the run from the state and could not have the luxury of collecting taxes from villagers.

“The issue of illegal levies has become a common practice with bandits everywhere worldwide, because they use it to survive. However, no government will fold its hands and allow that callous thing to happen.

“The criminals have been having very tough time of recent and they are really having the heat and cannot have the guts to wait and collect any tax.

“Most of them have fled their camps, you can find out, and we intend to sustain the momentum until we run them down or they surrender,” he said.

George Okoh in Makurdi

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia and his immediate predecessor, Samuel Ortom, have disagreed over the debtprofile of the state.

While Alia has accused Ortom of leaving  over N359 billion in salary arrears for him, Ortom has refuted the claims.

The governor stated in  Okpoga, headquarters of  Okpokwu Local Government Area recently  during a ‘thank you’ tour of  Ado/Okpokwu/Ogbadibo Federal Constituency that he inherited the bogus amount.

He alleged that previous administrations in the state lied to the people that the federal government denied them funds to pay salaries.

But Ortom has challenged the claims and accused him of lying.

In a statement by his media aide, Terver Akase, Ortomchallenged Alia to publish the allocations received since his assumption of office.

Ortom, who described the claim as nothing but a tissue of lies, said Alia, by his claim, had created the impression that he did not pay his salary for five years.

He said his successor has been bandying his administration, which shows that the governor was obsessed with his name.

The former governor recalled that the Alia administration had admitted that he (Ortom) left N187.56 billion in debt when he assumed office in 2023 and expressed worries about the new figure the governor dropped during his thank-you tour.

“We challenge the State Government under Governor Alia to publish the allocations they have received since May 2023 and how the funds are being expended.”

George Okoh in Makurdi

Special Adviser to the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, on External Security and Strategy, Col. Alexander Anshungu (rtd), has stated that strategic security measures have been initiated and implemented to ensure safety of lives in the state.

Anshungu,  who stated this while speaking during the visit of the UN/IOM and North -East ambassadors to Benue State last in Makurdi, noted that the strategy has led to reduction of crime and internal security, which was a major challenge in the state.

He lamented that since 2010 till date, the incidence of herders’ attacks on the state farming population and their farmlands have increasingly become a recurrent decimal with serious consequences that have manifested in mass destruction of lives and property worth billions of naira.

According to him, “Add to that is the unfortunate reality that the herders’ attacks have led to severe displacements of farming population as well as occupational displacements in the state. 14 IDP camps is a testament to this sad development.

“Previous administration in the state made modest effort in dealing with the security challenges but the situation has remained quite disturbing before the coming of the present administration.

“Since assumption of office, the governor has established a strategic synergy with all military and para-military formations and to their highest commanders in the country.

“The governor has also enhanced the logistics for information and intelligence gathering and sharing. He has enforced the law to check open grazing and other related security in the state.

“These efforts are yielding positive results as could be seen in the reduction of crime and internal security challenges in the state.”

George Okoh in Makurdi

A group, Benue Arise Network, yesterday called on the Nigerian Bar Association(NBA) to institute disciplinary actions against a team of lawyers over their alleged misconduct against the Chief Judge of Benue State, Justice Maurice Ikpambese, and the National Judicial Commission(NJC).

The Publicity Secretary of the group, Mr. Joseph  Igbudu, in a statement he issued and made available to journalists in Makurdi, said their attention has been drawn to media reports on a suit by a group, Optimum Media Limited, seeking the court to compel the state Governor, Hyacinth Alia, to request the state House of Assembly to  investigate the state Chief Judge, Justice Ikpambese.

Igbudu said, according to the report, that the suit which iwas filed by a team of lawyers led by Uwem U. Umoanwan, is marked FHC/MKD/CS/56/2024, before the Federal High Court, Makurdi Division.

He stated that on “February 12, 2024, the Benue Arise Network (BAN) drew the attention of the world to a malicious, frivolous and ill-fated petition to the National Judicial Commission (NJC) by a group under the umbrella of Benue Diaspora Vanguard (US chapter) against Justice Ikpambese, dated November 30, 2023, bordering on alleged judicial misconduct, gross disobedience of court judgment, abuse of power and financial mismanagement.

Parts of the statement read: “We also informed the public that the ssame petition was served on the governor of Benue State, calling on him to investigate the allegations against the Chief Judge of Benue State by the same group.

“As expected, that petition was decided by the NJC, and it met its ill-fated status as it was dismissed. The NJC under the chairmanship of Hon. Justice Olukayode Ariwoola, at it’s plenary on May 15 and May 16, 2024, resolved all pending petitions/issues, and Justice Ikpambese was not among the three Judges disciplined by the NJC.

“These facts are still in public domain and can easily be verified by media reports or just by visiting the website of the NJC, .

“We find it strange and embarrassing on the integrity of the Nigerian Bar Association that a lawyer will file a suit on issues already decided by the NJC.

“Interestingly, the same petition dated November 30, 2024, addressed to the NJC and was dismissed by the NJC is marked as Exhibit ‘A’, while the letter to the governor, urging him to investigate the CJ of Benue State are annexed  and marked as Exhibit ‘B’ in the suit before the Federal High Court in Makurdi.

“We wish to state that the lawyer who filed the suit praying the court to order the governor to request the House of Assembly to investigate the Chief Judge of the state ought to know as lawyers  that the disciplinary body for Judges is the NJC and not the state governor or House of Assembly.

“The team of lawyers led by Uwem U. Umoanwan ought to be ministers in the temple of justice and should know the appropriate disciplinary body for Judges.

“It is our belief that the suit is accentuated by malice and the conduct of the lawyers is infamous and worthy of disciplinary actions.”

The group, therefore, called on the respective NBA branches of the affected  lawyers to sanction the affected lawyers.

They, however, urged Justice Ikpambese not to be deterred or blackmailed to give into the whims and caprices of those who are bent on discrediting his hard-earned reputation and that of the Nigerian judiciary at large.

George Okoh in Makurdi

Justice M.S.Abubakar and A. Onoja of the Federal High  Court Makurdi  and  M.I. Ikpambese of the  Benue State High Court,  Makurdi have convicted and sentenced 32 internet fraudsters to various jail terms.

The convicts were jailed  after pleading guilty to one -count separate charges bordering on internet fraud  upon their  arraignment by the Makurdi Zonal Command of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, (EFCC).

The convicts are Eruka Vandefan Ephraim, Chukwudi Daniel Ifeanyi, Akahar Andrew Tsumga, Ugochukwu Stephen Ikenna, Atu Sunday, Nyior Benjamin Saakula, Atsaregh Terkuma Benedict, Kaun Jeremiah, Ochigbo Cletus, Tule Bemba Joseph, Jude Terhemba,  Paul MerabaTorkuma, Mathias Ebute, Terungwa Terna Rapheal, Shaahu Abraham Atuur, Justine Usar Idyekaa, Solomon Adejo,John Kator Wanger,  Abubakar Sadiq Adejo, Mohammed Habib Adejo, Ule Francis Terlumun, Nyior David, Cynic Isaac,Adadu Samson Ogaba, Abraham Ombugadu Luka, Onah Oboh Joseph and Joseph Ulayi Akagiaobe, 

Others are: Agennah Franklyn, Ochigo Cletus, Tule Benba Joseph, Hembafan Samuel Tarhembe and Jude Terhemba.

The charge against Atu Sunday reads: “That you, Atu Sunday,⁰ sometime in April 2022 in Benue State within the jurisdiction of this Honourable  court dishonestly induced Intelligent Lab Limited by requesting for multiple chargeback of a successful transaction done on their Point Of Sale (POS) a transaction you knew was false, causing her wrongful loss through your deceit and thereby committed an offence contrary to Section 322 of the Penal Code (CAP) 124 Laws of Benue State  and punishable under the same Law.”

 All the defendants pleaded guilty when the charges were read to them, prompting  counsel to EFCC M.Yusuf, A.S.Idris and A.Gazali to pray the courts to convict and sentence them accordingly.

 Eruka Vandefan  Ephraim, Akaahar Andrew Tsumga, Ugochukwu Stephen Ikenna and Atu Sunday bagged one year imprisonment with an option of ( N100,000.00) One Hundred Thousand Naira fine  each.

 Chukwudi Daniel was convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment with an option of N500,000.00 ( Five Hundred Thousand Naira) fine.

 Nyior Benjamin and Astaregh Terkuma Benedict bagged two years imprisonment with an option of N500,000.00 and  N200, 000 respectively.h⁴

Kaun Jeremiah was convicted and sentenced to six (6) months imprisonment or an option of N20,000.00( Twenty Thousand Naira).

Other convicts are: Paul Meraba Torkuma was convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment or an option of N500,000.00.

 He also forfeited the sum of N4,800,000.00( Four Million Eight Hundred Thousand Naira) one Red Colour Lexus 2010 Model with registration number ABUJA ( KWL 413 BZ and iphone 13 Pro Max,  Mathias Ebute convicted and sentenced to one year imprisonment or an option of N5000,000.00 fine.  

He forfeited  his iphone 14 pro max and the sum of N4,000,000.00( Four Million Naira) to the Federal Government of Nigeria,  Terungwa Terna Rapheal   jailed one year or N300,000.00 ( Three Hundred Thousand Naira) fine,  Shaahu Abraham Atuur and Justine Usar Idyerkaa jailed one year each with a fine of N 200,000.00 (Two Hundred Thousand Naira) each and an order to restitute the sum of N1,500.000.00( One  Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira and N300,000.00 ( Three Hundred Thousand) to their victims.

 Other convicts included Solomon Adejo, Mohammed Habib Adejo and Abubakar Sadiq Adejo who were jailed two years  each with an option of   N500,000.00 fine for Solomon and Abubakar each while Mohammed was fined N200,000.00 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira).

 The court  ordered  Abubakar  to forfeit a grey  colour  Toyota Car with registration number ABUJA ( YAB 668 DP ) purchased with the proceeds of crime  to form part of the restitution sum valued at N14,500,000.00 ( Fourteen Million Five Hundred Thousand Naira) and t N 3, 562, 750.00 ( Three Million,FiveHundred and Sixty Two Thousand, Seven Hundred and Fifty Naira) recovered in his possession.

 Synic Isaac was convicted and sentenced to one year jail term with an option of N100,000.00 fine and restitution of N200,000.00 ( Two Hundred Thousand Naira.  

 Adadu Samson Ogaba was  jailed two years with an option of N1,000,000.00 (One Million Naira ) and restitution of the sum of N6,5000,000,00 (Six Million, Five Hundred Thousand Naira).  Abraham Ombugadu Luka bagged one year jail term or an option of N100,000.00 fine.  

He also restituted  the sum of N2,000,000.00 (Two million Naira) , Onah Oboh Joseph was jailed one year or an option of One Hundred Thousand Naira and forfeiture of a black Toyota Corolla car with registration number ABUJA ( RBC 355 CU). He restituted the sum of N302,000.00 ( Three Hundred and Two Thousand naira) to the Federal Government of Nigeria and his bank account closed.   

Joseph Ulayi Okagiobe  was sentenced to one year imprisonment or an option of fine of  N1000,000.00  and an order to restitute the sum of N252,000.00(Two Hundred and Fifty Two Thousand Naira and his bank account closed.  Agennah Franlyn bagged one year jail term with an option of N100,000.00 (One Hundred Thousand Naira fine.  Ochigo Cletus was imprisoned for one year with an option of N200, 000  fine.  

Tule Bemba Joseph jailed one year with an option of N200,000.00 fine.  He forfeited  One Toyota Corolla 2013 Model with Registration number BENUE ( VDY 54 DA ) , the sum of N5,578,999.34 ( Five Million, Five Hundred and Seventy Eight Thousand  Nine Hundred and Ninety Nine Naira, Thirty Four kobo) domiciled in his bank account.

 Others are : Samson Emmanuel, Torkuma Henry, Ngbegocho Enoch Ogah, Adakole Idoko, Abah David, Umbugadu Bitrus Ahmadu, Oloche Patrick Ogboji Emmanuel, Onehi Joshua, Ikogi Idu Linus, Terhemba Micheal, convicted and sentenced  to one year imprisonment with an option of N1000,000.00 each.

Tule Peter Sesugh and Inalegwu James bagged two years imprisonment or  the sum of N100,000.00.

The judges further ordered the convicts to forfeit all devices recovered from them being proceeds of crime to the Federal Government of Nigeria.

 All the convicts were arrested by operatives of the EFCC  for internet offences and were jailed.

George Okoh in Makurdi

Farmatrac Agro Solution, a Danish tractor assembling company is to set up an assembling plant in Benue State.

This was disclosed by the company’s head of West Africa partner, Mr. Godfrey Ajayi, when he led other members of his team on a visit to the Benue Investment Property Company (BIPC) Limited in Makurdi.

Ajayi said Farmatrac has outlined an ambitious plan to establish a presence in Africa and Benue State in particular.

He said the aim is to acquire tractors and equipment from Denmark to Benue State, set up a tractor assembling plant and train Benue youths as mechanics to provide ongoing maintenance as well as support for the tractors.

In a zoom presentation, the Managing Director and CEO of Farmatrac Agro Solutions, Vincent Chand, stated that the partnership between Farmatrac and Benue State government represents an exciting opportunity for the company to bring high-quality, affordable farming mechanisation to West Africa and Benue State in particular through BIPC which is the first to key into the partnership.

According to him, Farmatrac mission is to help increase agricultural productivity and support the livelihoods of small holder farmers in West Africa.

The Managing Director, BIPC Limited, Dr. Raymond Asemakaha, said the first phase of the partnership with Farmatrac Agro Solutions targets about 200 units of tractors.

He said: “BIPC stands to benefit from this partnership by establishing a tractor rental/hiring centre to serve local farmers and becoming the exclusive distributor of Farmatrac spare parts in the whole of north central thereby generating revenue through the sale and maintenance of the tractors.”

During the meeting, a technical team was immediately constituted by the Managing Director to work out all necessary modalities for an MOU as both parties expressed optimism about the venture’s potential returns on investment.

George Okoh in Makurdi

Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has said that Nigeria’s diversity is too treasured, and it should be rather cherished.

Governor Alia stated this at the Arewa House in Kaduna yesterday, while addressing Arewa Think-Tank, during their one-day lecture to celebrate the one-year achievements of the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

Speaking on the theme: ‘Our Diversity, Our Strength’, the governor regretted that diversity in Nigeria is often viewed through the lens of division, a source of tension and conflict.

He stated, however, that: “It is essential to recognise that diversity is a double-edged sword that if embraced properly, can become our greatest asset. The key lies in understanding and harnessing our differences to build a more robust, united and prosperous Nigeria.”

He explained that President Tinubu’s economic policies are also hinged on Nigeria’s diversity, saying the administration has launched numerous initiatives to support local businesses and artisans from different cultural backgrounds, adding that by promoting local industries and traditional crafts, the government has not only boosted the economy, but also preserved Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage.

Alia pointed out that the new National Anthem, which was recently signed into law,  has said it all in its first stanza, lines 3 and 4 where it states that “…Though tribe and tongue may differ, in brotherhood we stand…,” adding that diversity fuels innovation.

Explaining further, Governor Alia said: “When people from varied backgrounds come together, they bring different perspectives, experiences and ideas. This confluence of thought drives creativity and problem-solving system, which are critical for economic growth. Nigeria’s diverse population should be a powerhouse for entrepreneurship and innovation, fostering industries that are as varied as our people.”

Emphasising on the importance of diversity, the governor added: “Let us not take Nigeria’s diversity for granted as it offers immense opportunities for growth and unity. The richness of Nigeria’s ethnic, linguistic, religious and cultural diversity when harnessed effectively can lead to unparalleled growth and unity, showcasing Nigeria as a beacon of diversity and strength on the global stage. Our diversity should be our power, and our strength, should be in our unity. When we recognise, appreciate, and accept this fact, then there would be no them and us.”

He urged Nigerians to continue to celebrate the richness of the country’s diversity, saying Nigeria as a country with more than 250 ethnic groups, with different dialects, religions and cultures, show the country’s identity and potential.