The Principal Special Assistant to the Governor of Benue State on Youth and Media Mobilisation, Atu Joseph, has announced the indefinite suspension of his Chief of Staff, Mr. John Ukeyima, and Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Lubem Terkula. The suspension took effect on June 14, 2025.
Atu Joseph, in an official communication released on Sunday, June 15, 2025, justified the action on the grounds that both officials violated clear directives from the state government by partaking in protests against the ongoing killings in the state. He accused the suspended aides of undermining his authority and breaching the trust of their offices.
In a letter addressed to the affected officials, Atu Joseph stated: “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.
“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.
“During the period of this indefinite suspension, you are to refrain from all official duties and responsibilities, and you are not permitted to represent this office or me in any capacity.”
Hundreds of Benue youths staged a protest in Makurdi, the state capital, on Sunday to condemn the recurring deadly attacks allegedly perpetrated by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
The demonstration was sparked by the recent killings in Yelewata community, Guma Local Government Area, where close to 250 people reportedly lost their lives.
