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Makurdi–Otukpo–Enugu Road Project: Benue Govt Commends CHEC, Says Over ₦4.6bn Paid in Compensation
-Project Is a Critical Economic Artery for the Idoma Nation – Dep Gov
-Otukpo corridor to be completed in June 2026 – Controller of Works
The Benue State Government have commended China Harbour Engineering Company Limited (CHEC) for the steady progress and quality of work on the dualization of the 9th Mile (Enugu)–Otukpo–Makurdi road project.
Sam Ode, Deputy Governor of the state gave the commendation during an on-the-spot assessment of the project at the Otukpo corridor on Friday. The project is Phase II of the dualization of the Keffi–Akwanga–Lafia–Makurdi–9th Mile expressway, with Phase I completed in April 2024.
Speaking during the inspection, Ode described CHEC as a reputable frontline construction firm and praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for sustaining the momentum of the project. He also lauded the Minister of Works, Engr. David Umahi, for his hands-on leadership and commitment to ensuring the delivery of critical road infrastructure across the country.
The deputy governor stated that under a new federal policy requiring states to partner with the Federal Government on road projects, the Benue State Government is responsible for compensation and relocation of utilities along the stretch of the road within the state. He said the state has so far paid over ₦4.6 billion in compensation to affected communities, covering demolished structures and relocation of public utilities from Wurukum Roundabout in Makurdi to Orokam, the border with Enugu State.
“In Otukpo township, we made a special appeal because our people have suffered for years due to the abandoned road. The Minister of Works graciously directed CHEC to prioritise this section, and we have been assured that the Otukpo stretch will be delivered before June this year,” he said.
The deputy governor added that ongoing challenges, such as the relocation of power lines and water pipelines, are being addressed, with assurances that all outstanding utilities will be moved within weeks to allow uninterrupted construction.
Mr. Ode described the road as a critical economic artery, particularly for the Idoma Nation and as a major north–south transport corridor. He noted that improved road infrastructure would enhance agricultural productivity by easing the movement of farm produce to markets and stimulating broader economic activities across Benue State.
“Infrastructure is the backbone of any economy. For our largely agrarian people, good roads mean better access to markets and better value for their produce,” he added.
On his part, the Federal Controller of Works, Engineer Munkaila Danladi said the Makurdi–9th Mile (Enugu) road spans about 250 kilometres, with Benue State accounting for the longest portion, approximately 178 kilometres.
Danladi disclosed that about 120 kilometres have been completed up to binder course level, while around 50 kilometres have reached the wearing course stage, alongside ongoing earthworks and construction of several hydraulic structures.
“We also have major structures like the flyover bridge at Chainage 00, which shows the level of momentum on this project. And I assure you that by June this year, we should be able to complete the dual carriageway for the Oturkpo corridor,” he said.
The controller stressed that quality assurance remains a top priority, noting that the Minister of Works does not tolerate substandard work. He revealed that multiple consultants, alongside ministry engineers, supervise each section, while several laboratories conduct routine material testing to ensure strict compliance with specifications.
On community relations, Danladi commended both host communities for showing exceptional cooperation, driven by the economic importance of the road. He noted that in some cases, residents vacated affected areas even before compensation payments were concluded.
The controller added that the project has also enhanced local content and technology transfer, with CHEC employing Nigerian engineers and artisans, using locally sourced construction materials, and sharing technical expertise with local professionals.
Also speaking , Mr. Dong, CHEC head of engineering said the subgrade work had been completed on sections of the road and that stone base and pavement works would commence shortly. According to him, asphalt laying on one side of the road is expected to be completed before March, subject to the timely relocation of utility installations.
The road project is jointly financed by the China Export and Import (EXIM) Bank and the federal government of Nigeria.
The Makurdi–Otukpo–9th Mile (Enugu) road is a key national corridor linking the North-Central and South-East regions of Nigeria. When completed, it is expected to boost agricultural trade, reduce travel time, attract investment, and significantly enhance socio-economic activities across Benue State and neighbouring regions.
January 17, 2026
Gov Alia Affirms Suspension of SUBEB Chairman, Other Government Officials
20-8-
By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
The Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has approved the immediate suspension of the Chairman, State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Benue State, Dr Grace Adagba, the Executive Chairman of Otukpo Local Government Council, Mr Maxwell Ogiri, the Executive Secretary, Benue State Lottery Commission, Mr Michael Aper, for the period of one month respectively.
The approval followed the resolution of the Members of Benue State House of Assembly who earlier recommended the suspension of the aforementioned government officials over their refusal to appear before the house.
It could be recalled that Members of the Assembly during plenary, declined to honor a corresponce from Governor Hyacinth Alia, seeking the screening and confirmation of nominees for commissioner positions, explaining that the decision was due to the Governor’s refusal to honor resolutions from the house.
A press statement by the Chief Press Secretary, to the Governor, Tersoo Kula, indicated that the suspension takes immediate effect.
Governor Alia, has reiterated his unwavering commitment to the rule of law, due process and the principles of separation of powers. He lauded Members of the Benue State of Assembly for exercising their constitutional responsibilities.
Governor Alia, assured people of the state that his administration remains dedicated to transparency, accountability and good governance. He implores the affected institutions to ensure seamless continuity of service delivery during the period of suspension.
August 20, 2025
SGF Meets Tor Tiv, Och’Idoma, Elders for Lasting Peace in Benue
Wilfred Francis
The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, CON, has met with the paramount traditional rulers of Benue State – the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Orchivirigh Prof. James Ayatse, and the Och’Idoma, His Royal Majesty, Agabaidu Elaigwu Odogbo Obagaji John as part of continuous efforts to restore peace and security in the state.
The high-level meeting, held in Benue, follows a directive by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to urgently constitute a strategic peace committee aimed at addressing the root causes of violence in Benue and charting a path toward lasting reconciliation and stability.
Senator George Akume in a statement signed by the Director Information and public relations, Segun Imohiosen, described the incident as heartbreaking and reiterated the President’s resolve to end the senseless killings in the food basket of the nation and across the country.
“We appeal to you to remain vigilant so that miscreants do not infiltrate the communities. Whenever you observe a breach, do not resist in informing us. The President will never disappoint you”. He said.
He noted that the inclusion of the Tor Tiv and Och’Idoma in the process reflects the Tinubu administration’s recognition of the important role traditional institutions play in conflict resolution, community dialogue, and peacebuilding.
In their remarks, the two monarchs commended President Tinubu for his physical assessment in the state and assured the Federal Government of their full support and commitment to peace efforts. They also called on all Benue communities to give peace a chance and cooperate with the committee once inaugurated.
The proposed peace committee led by the SGF has commenced consultations immediately, with a mandate to recommend actionable solutions to end the attacks in Benue State.
June 22, 2025
Abductors of Benue Information Commissioner Demand N60 Million Ransom
By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
The unknown armed men who kidnapped the Benue State Commissioner of Information Arts and Culture, Mathew Abo, last Saturday in Zaki-biam, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, are demanding N60 Million ransom.
The kidnappers made this demand on Saturday while speaking with a family member of the abductee via phone call.
The source of the information who pleaded anonymity due to security reasons, disclosed that the abductors resorted to torturing, Mr Abo to press home their demand.
According to the source, the kidnappers called and placed their phone on loud so that their beating of the Commissioner and his cries for help could be heard.
Day Break’s checks indicated that the kidnappers came on four motorcycles, ordered everyone in the house including the Commissioner’s wife and children to lie face down, while they took him away to an unknown destination.
The source further maintained that the abductors compelled the commissioner at gun point to sit behind the rider of one of the motorcycle who took him away.
Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia while reacting to the incident at the IBB square, venue of the tribunal’s victory reception organized for him by the APC, Benue State Chapter, gave the abductors of the commissioner limited time to release him.
September 30, 2023
Gunmen Abduct 11 Passengers in Attack on Benue Link Bus
By Milcah Tanimu
Gunmen attacked a Benue Link bus along the Ogbokolo-Otukpa road in Okpokwu Local Government Area of Benue, abducting 11 passengers. The driver and four passengers managed to escape during the attack, which occurred around 10 pm.
The kidnappers initially demanded ₦60 million as ransom but later reduced it to ₦16 million for the release of the abducted passengers. This incident follows a similar one on September 10 involving two buses from the same transport company, where 28 people were kidnapped. So far, 26 have been released, while two remain in captivity.
Omale Omale, the Commissioner for Power, Energy, and Transport, confirmed the incident but stated that details are still sketchy. Among the abducted passengers is a staff member of the Makurdi Zonal Centre . The Zonal Director, Pam Nyam, has informed the police and requested urgent action to rescue the abducted passengers.
September 18, 2023
Gov Alia Denies Approving Benue Lands for Construction of Colonies
By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia has denied the allegation that he approved some portions of Benue land for the construction of Fulani colonies, describing it as fake news.
The Governor who was reacting to allegation by the opposition People’s Democratic Party, PDP, in the state that he approved Benue Lands for the construction of Fulani colonies, called on Benue people to disregard the story.
Fr Alia who spoke through his Chief Press Secretary, Tersoo Kula, in a statement noted thus: ” Our attention is drawn to a story making headlines on the social media that Governor Hyacinth Alia, has included Benue in the list of states to get Fulani colonies”.
He explained that the the Governor’s desire is to return the Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) back to their ancestral homes as soon as possible to enable them continue with their farming.
According to the statement, Federal Government under the leadership of President, Bola Ahmed Tinubu has agreed to sponsor the reconstruction of new homes for the Internally Displaced Persons.
Mr Kula noted that “the homes are going to be built in cluster formats to enable our people to live more closely with each other and to experience more stability. Be rest assured that in Benue, the homes are for our people and not for any colony.”
He assured that Governor Hyacinth Alia will not do anything to undermine the goodwill he has gotten from the people of the state, adding that the Governor meant well for Benue citizens and as such, he would always put them first.
September 13, 2023
Flood: Benue Residents Implored to Move to Safer Areas
By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
Residents of Makurdi, the Benue State capital have been admonished to relocate to Safer grounds to avoid being cut up in the impending flood.
Commissioner in charge of Ministry of Water Resources, Environment and Climate Change in Benue State, Odo Ogwu gave this counsel when he visited Greater Makurdi Water Works, banks of River Benue among other areas, few days after assuming duty as Commissioner.
Mr Ogwu stated that in view of warnings from relevant authorities regarding the impending flood, there is need for residents living within the river banks to relocate to safer areas to avoid being affected by the disaster.
To this end, the Commissioner assured that the ministry is putting in place mechanisms to reduce the impact of the flood through opening up of drainage channels that have blocked water ways to allow free flow of water, adding that government is committed to improving sanitation in the state.
It could be recalled that National Emergency Management Agency, NAMA, and other relevant authorities had warned the affected states, including Benue about the release of water from the Cameron’s lagdo dam this year.
September 2, 2023
Benue Govt to Revamp Governor’s Cup Competition
By Isaac Kertyo, Makurdi
Benue State Government has approved the resuscitation of the Governor’s Cup Competition in the state which is to begin this year.
Governor of Benue State, Rev Fr Hyacinth Alia spoke through the Director of Sports in Benue State, Mr Paul Nongo at a football stakeholders summit held in Makurdi, which was organized by the Benue State Football Association.
According to the Director, Government has also approved the renovation of the Aper Aku stadium, adding that the present administration is poised to repositioning the sports industry in the state for the benefit of all and sundry.
He lauded the Chairman, Benue State Football Association, Barr Paul Ede and his team for the steps taken towards uplifting football in the state.
In his remarks, the Chairman Benue State Football Association, Barr Paul Ede noted that the new board was ready to take football in the state to higher heights, stressing that he interacted with stakeholders to enable him achieve his target.
The Chairman hinted that arrangements have reached an advanced stage to acquire 10,000 footballs with eight coaches to be sponsored for training in schools for effective service delivery.
August 7, 2023
Benue Anti-Open Grazing Law Still In Force – Ortom
The Benue State Government has disclosed that the Benue law against open Grazing still stands despite suspending the activities of the implementing agents, the Benue Livestock Guards.
The state government through the Special Adviser on Media Mr. Terver Akase yesterday said It had become pertinent to clarify the misconceptions regarding the decision of the Benue State Security Council to suspend operations of the state Livestock Guards for two weeks.
He explained that the Benue State Security Council only suspended the operations of the state Livestock Guards for two weeks.
He said the suspension of the Livestock Guards was only for a grace period which became necessary to allow for a reduction in the influx of cattle into the state.
“As Governor Samuel Ortom stated while briefing the press at the end of the State Security Council meeting of Tuesday, April 11, 2023, the action is part of measures to ensure that all those who invaded the state with cattle leave, so that Benue people would have peace and go about their legitimate and lawful businesses.
“We must stress that the enforcement of the Benue State Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law is still in full force and anyone who flouts the law at the expiration of the two weeks grace period will be apprehended and prosecuted.
“Governor Ortom once again appreciates the people of Benue State for their support since the enforcement of the law commenced in 2017,” the statement read in part.
April 13, 2023
Scores Feared Killed As Suspected Herdsmen Attack Benue IDPs
The Benue State Police Command has confirmed another attack on one of the Internal Displaced Person (IDP) camps at Agan in the Makurdi Local Government Area of Benue with many killed by suspected herdsmen.
The police spokesperson, DSP Sewuese Anene in a telephone conversation with our correspondent in Benue State, confirmed last night attack which she said claimed many lives at the IDP camps but the casualty figure is yet to be determined.
DSP Sewuese further added that the commissioner of police, Wale Abasse will visit the scene of the attack very early in the morning to clarify what happened, the casualty figures but response team has already been deployed to the area.
This attack followed the killing of a traditional ruler in Apa Local Government Area of Benue earlier in the week along with many others before the attackers moved to the Otukpo Local Government Area on Wednesday, killing 46 persons including a 33-year-old son of the local government chairman and now this at an IDP camp Makurdi, the state capital.
April 8, 2023