Hon. Atu Terver Joseph, Principal Special Assistant to the Governor of Benue State on Youth and Media Mobilization, has dismissed his Chief of Staff, Mr. John Ukeyima, and Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Lubem Terkula, for participating in protests against the ongoing killings in the state.
The dismissal was communicated through a formal letter issued on Sunday night, June 14, 2025, in which Terver accused the aides of "working against the explicit directives" of their principal.
"This letter serves as formal notification of your immediate and indefinite suspensions from your position as Chief of Staff and Chief Press Secretary, effective today, June 14, 2025," the letter stated.
"This decision has been made due to your actions that have been deemed as working against the explicit directives of your Principal. Such conduct is a serious breach of your duties and the trust placed in your office," it further read.
Protests Triggered by Deadly Attacks
The dismissals come amid heightened tensions in Benue State following a recent attack on Yelewata community in Guma Local Government Area, where nearly 250 people were reportedly killed by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
On Sunday, hundreds of Benue youths took to the streets of Makurdi, the state capital, to protest the incessant deadly attacks and draw global attention to the security crisis in the region.
BenriNews reports that the protest occurred against the backdrop of growing frustration among residents over the government's handling of the security situation in the state.
Wider Political Implications
The sacking of the two senior aides highlights the political tensions surrounding the response to the security crisis. In recent developments, President Tinubu has ordered increased security action in Benue and tasked Governor Alia with reconciliation efforts.
Meanwhile, Benue youths have accused Governor Alia of paying lip service to the killings, while some National Assembly members have denied allegations by the governor that they sponsored herdsmen attacks in the state.
The letter to the dismissed aides concluded by instructing them to "refrain from all official duties and responsibilities" and prohibiting them from representing the office in any capacity during their indefinite suspension.
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