The Principal Special Assistant to the Benue State Governor on Youth and Media Mobilization, Hon. Atu Terver Joseph, has suspended his Chief of Staff, Mr. John Ukeyima, and Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Lubem Terkula, for taking part in a protest against the ongoing killings in the state.
In a letter dated Sunday night, Terver cited insubordination and a violation of official directives as the reasons for their immediate and indefinite suspensions.
“This letter serves as formal notification of your immediate and indefinite suspensions from your positions as Chief of Staff and Chief Press Secretary, effective June 14, 2025,” the statement read.
He said the decision was prompted by actions that went against the position of the office, adding that such conduct amounted to a betrayal of trust and a dereliction of duty.
“During this suspension period, you are expected to withdraw from all official duties. You are also prohibited from representing this office or myself in any capacity,” he added.
The disciplinary action followed a large protest in Makurdi on Sunday, where hundreds of youths marched to condemn the continued killings in parts of the state.
The demonstration was reportedly triggered by a recent attack in Yelewata, a community in Guma Local Government Area, where nearly 250 residents were said to have been killed by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
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