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BENUE STATE

Benue State Governor Declares Region Safe for Investment, Cites Progress in Key Sectors

by KINGSLEY OYEMA November 28, 2023

In a recent address at the Conference of Benue Journalists (CBJ) in Makurdi, Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, assured potential investors that the state is now a safe and conducive destination for investment. Governor Alia highlighted his administration’s efforts to tackle longstanding issues such as security challenges, infrastructural deficits, and debt burdens that have plagued the state.

Governor Alia proudly announced an increase in both local and foreign investments, attributing the positive trend to the restoration of peace in the state and deliberate measures taken by his administration to create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive.

Encouraging investors to explore opportunities in Benue, particularly in agriculture, tourism, and mineral resources, Governor Alia emphasized the state’s commitment to becoming a preferred investment destination.

In the transportation sector, the governor revealed that the state has procured 100 new buses for the state-owned transport company, Benue Links. This move aims to enhance services and alleviate transportation challenges following the removal of fuel subsidy.

Governor Alia underscored his administration’s focus on people-oriented projects, with priorities placed on agriculture, human capital development, health, and infrastructure upgrades, aligning with the state’s seven-point agenda. He also outlined key projects, including the establishment of a modern ICT center at Benue State University, timely payment of salaries and gratuities, construction of township roads, and the provision of health facilities.

Addressing the prevailing peace in Benue, Governor Alia stated, “There’s relative peace now in Benue for investors to come. I am focused on attracting new investments and reviving moribund companies.” He highlighted the launch of “Operation Enduring Peace III,” a military exercise aimed at enhancing unity and security in the state.

Governor Alia expressed his commitment to the transformation of Benue State, leveraging untapped natural resources and the vibrant youthful population to actualize the state’s developmental aspirations.

November 28, 2023 0 comment

Policewoman and Six Others Killed in Benue State Bank Robbery

by VIVIAN JENSEN October 21, 2023

written by VIVIAN JENSEN

A policewoman, identified as Emmanuella Ankyov, has been identified as one of the victims in a harrowing bank robbery incident that left seven people dead in the Otukpo area of Benue State.

The robbery occurred on a fateful Friday at approximately 3 p.m. when suspected armed robbers descended upon several banks in Otukpo, Benue State. These assailants, wielding firearms, unleashed a hail of bullets, leading to the loss of lives among the residents of Otukpo.

Among the casualties were seven individuals, including police officers and a former councillor who were present at one of the targeted banks. The suspected robbers, displaying audaciousness, operated with impunity for over an hour, plunging the community into a state of shock and mourning.

Otukpo, serving as the political hub of Benue South Senatorial District, is home to the Idoma and Igede ethnic groups. The incident sent shockwaves through this tranquil region, prompting concerns about the state of security and law enforcement in the area.

An eyewitness, Sunday Abah, recounted the incident and expressed dismay that the gunmen operated for an extended period without any effective security intervention. The prolonged violence left a mark of fear and unease in the community, with residents seeking answers and reassurance regarding their safety.

In the wake of this tragedy, friends and colleagues of the fallen police officers have turned to social media to grieve and pay tribute to the deceased. The incident has brought into focus the pressing need for enhanced security measures and a swift response to criminal activities in the region, as the community grapples with the loss of seven of its own.

October 21, 2023 0 comment

Suspected Fulani Herdsmen Hijack Bus in Benue State, Leaving One Dead and Several Injured

by Quicktell News October 14, 2023

written by Quicktell News

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed that a Benue Links bus traveling to Otukpo via the Naka road in Gwer West Local Government Area was attacked and hijacked by suspected Fulani herdsmen at Tyolaha village. The incident left one passenger dead and several others with varying degrees of injuries.

According to sources who reported the incident to Daily Post, this is not the first time that marauding herdsmen have carried out such violent acts against passengers on the poorly maintained road.

Tyolaha village has sadly become a hotbed for persistent attacks by suspected Fulani herdsmen. Residents expressed their frustration, revealing that approximately 15 herdsmen effortlessly overpowered their victims, preventing any resistance and making a swift escape.

The unrelenting attacks have forced many residents to flee their homes, and farmers have been compelled to relocate from the area due to the ongoing threats. Those who remain are now urgently appealing to the government and security forces for protection.

Benue State Police Public Relations Officer, Anekwe Catherine, confirmed the recent attack, stating, “A bus belonging to Benue Links, which was heading to Otukpo, was attacked by unknown gunmen, resulting in three individuals, including women, being wounded, and one fatality this morning.”

The recurring attacks in the region have raised concerns about the safety of travelers and residents in Tyolaha village and the need for more robust security measures to safeguard the lives and property of those living in the area. Authorities are under pressure to address the growing security challenges and provide a safe environment for the affected communities.

October 14, 2023 0 comment