Benue News Summary – Thursday, February 1, 2024

APC Chairman’s Suspension Overturned: The National Working Committee of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has nullified the suspension of Augustine Agada, the chairman of the Benue State chapter. This decision follows Agada’s suspension by the APC executive members of Ehaje Ward 1 in Ogbadibo Local Government Area. The NWC reinstated Agada, emphasizing his continued leadership in the state.

Governor Alia Commends Reconciliation Efforts: Governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State expressed satisfaction with the reconciliation meeting initiated by the National Working Committee of the APC. The meeting, held at the Benue State Government House in Makurdi, addressed internal party concerns, bringing a resolution to tensions within the APC in the state.

IDPs Face Deadly Attacks: Disturbing reports reveal that at least 10 Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) were killed by armed herdsmen at the Gbajimba IDPs Camp in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The Camp Manager, Mr. Felix Banke, disclosed this during a meeting with a delegation from the United States Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (USBHA) at the camp.

New Police Commissioners Appointed: In response to the escalating insecurity nationwide, the Police Service Commission (PSC) has approved the appointment and posting of new Commissioners of Police (CPs) in various states, including Benue. This move is part of broader efforts to address security challenges in the face of increasing incidents.

Governor Alia Reveals High Number of Displaced Persons: Governor Hyacinth Alia disclosed that over 1.5 million individuals are displaced in Internally Displaced Camps (IDPs) across Benue State due to attacks by herdsmen. The governor shared this information during a visit by a delegation from the US Bureau for Humanitarian Assistance (BHA) and other partners at Exco Hall Extension, Government House Makurdi.