Benue at 50: Gov Alia immortalises Murtala Muhammed, Dan Agbese, frees 14 inmates

Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has unveiled plans to honour the late Head of State, Gen. Murtala Muhammed, and other notable personalities as part of events commemorating the state’s 50th anniversary.

The governor made the announcement in a statewide broadcast delivered on Tuesday from the Government House in Makurdi to mark the Golden Jubilee celebration.

Gen. Murtala Muhammed established Benue State on February 3, 1976, along with several other states during his time as Nigeria’s military leader.

According to Alia, recognising the contributions of past leaders and heroes is crucial to appreciating the sacrifices that led to the state’s creation and development.

He stressed that immortalising Gen. Muhammed was especially significant because of his pivotal role in the birth of Benue State.

In another major decision, the governor revealed that the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation (BPPC) has been renamed after renowned journalist, Chief Dan Agbese. The agency will now be called the Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation.

Alia also disclosed that more prominent Benue sons and daughters, both deceased and living, would have key institutions named in their honour. Those mentioned include the late Wantaregh Paul Unongo, Elder Isaac Shaahu, Senator Suemo Chia, Gen. Atom Kpera, the late Tashaku Oradi, among others.

As part of the anniversary activities, the governor exercised his prerogative of mercy by granting clemency to 14 inmates serving different sentences in correctional centres across the state. One of the beneficiaries, Terhumba Aondona, had his sentence reduced from 10 years to four years.

Others granted clemency include Akaajime Imoter, Kongusu Terzugwe, Terngu Orshi, Ornaa Achagh, Zwa Achir, Terkimbi Amadu, Iorpenda Christian, Aondowaae Terlumun, Oriba John, Sughnen Terfa James, Akaahar Isaac, Ordam Thankgod, Gwayem Agba James and Iorfa Terkimbi.

The announcements were part of activities marking 50 years of Benue State, with the governor reiterating his administration’s resolve to preserve the state’s heritage and build a lasting legacy for future generations.