Atu Joseph, the Principal Special Assistant to the Benue State Governor on Youth and Media Mobilisation, has suspended his Chief of Staff, Mr. John Ukeyima, and Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Lubem Terkula, effective from June 14, 2025.
The suspension, announced on Sunday, June 15, was reportedly due to their involvement in protests against the recent killings in the state, an action said to be in defiance of the government’s stance.
In a formal letter to both officials, Joseph accused them of violating his authority and betraying the responsibilities entrusted to them.
The suspensions are to remain in effect indefinitely, with both officials prohibited from carrying out any official duties or representing the office in any capacity during this period.
Their suspension follows mass protests in Makurdi, led by hundreds of youths in response to the brutal attack on Yelewata in Guma Local Government Area, where nearly 250 people were reportedly killed by suspected Fulani herdsmen.
The letter reads …
“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”.
See photo below …
