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 residence located in Gyado Villa.
Their unexpected arrival raised alarm among residents, prompting immediate reports from community members and youth leaders, including a distress call to the government made through Barns Dzege and staff of Villa Suites.
In response, a joint team comprising the Benue State Commissioners for Works and Housing, and Humanitarian Affairs, along with the Makurdi Local Government Chairman, the ALGON Chairman, and security personnel, swiftly moved to the scene for verification and to take control of the situation.
Speaking on the development, Asortar James Asortar, Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Media, confirmed that the 33 men had been brought into the state by a company registered just last month, on May 8, and were said to be staff of a purported NGO.
“Upon arrival at Villa Suites, it was discovered that all 33 individuals were brought in that same day from different northern states,” James stated.
“Initial interviews revealed that most of them could not speak English, and their purpose for settling in a private house within the community remains unclear. Security operatives have taken them into custody for interrogation to determine the true nature of their mission in Benue.”
He added that the vigilance of Gyado Villa youths and Villa Suites staff helped prevent what could have turned into a serious security breach.
In a reaction, the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, appreciated the timely response of the community.
“We thank the youth of Gyado Villa and the Villa Suites team for sounding the alarm on time. Your vigilance is deeply appreciated. This incident further underscores the importance of staying alert and reporting anything suspicious,” Governor Alia said in a statement.
