The Benue State Government has confirmed the arrest of 33 individuals from Northern Nigeria who arrived in Makurdi aboard two buses and attempted to settle in a private property in Gyado Villa, triggering panic among residents.

 

Prompt alerts from concerned youth leaders and Villa Suites staff, including a report to the government through Barns Dzege, led to swift intervention. A delegation of state officials and security personnel, including the Commissioners for Works and Humanitarian Affairs, as well as local government leaders, moved quickly to verify the situation.

 

According to Asortar James Asortar, Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Media, the 33 men were reportedly brought in by a company registered only on May 8, claiming to operate as an NGO. Most of the men reportedly could not speak English, and their reasons for relocating to the private residence remain unclear.

 

The group has been taken into security custody for interrogation, while the state investigates the legitimacy and intent of their arrival.

 

Governor Hyacinth Alia praised the Gyado Villa youths and Villa Suites staff for their alertness, emphasizing the need for constant community vigilance:

 

“This incident underscores the importance of staying alert and reporting anything suspicious. Your vigilance is deeply appreciated.” Governor Alia said in a statement.