By Atoyebi Nike
The Principal Special Assistant to the Governor of Benue State on Youth and Media Mobilisation, Mr. Atu Joseph, has placed two of his top aides, Chief of Staff Mr. John Ukeyima and Chief Press Secretary Mr. Lubem Terkula on indefinite suspension for participating in a protest deemed contrary to state directives.
The action, effective June 14, 2025, was formally communicated in a letter dated June 15. Joseph accused both aides of insubordination and a violation of official trust, citing their presence at a youth-led demonstration in Makurdi that condemned the escalating violence in the state.
“This decision has been made due to your actions that have been deemed as working against the explicit directives of your Principal,” the suspension letter stated. “Such conduct is a serious breach of your duties and the trust placed in your office.”
The suspended officials are barred from engaging in any official responsibilities or public representations on behalf of the office during the period of their suspension.
The protest in question saw hundreds of young people gather in the Benue State capital to denounce the recent killings in Yelewata, a community in Guma Local Government Area. Reports indicate that nearly 250 residents were massacred by suspected Fulani herdsmen in one of the deadliest attacks this year.
Tensions have continued to rise in Benue as local communities call for decisive government intervention and increased security. The state, which has long been at the center of violent clashes between herders and farming communities, has seen renewed bloodshed in recent weeks.
