Are Terrorists Fleeing U.S. Airstrikes in Sokoto Now Spreading Violence Into Benue? Why Agatu Council Chairman Says Armed Groups Have Infiltrated Communities, Forced Policy Reversals, and Triggered a New Security Crisis

Are counterterrorism operations in one part of Nigeria unintentionally pushing violence into other states? That is the concern raised by the Chairman of Agatu Local Government Area in Benue State, James Melvin Ejeh, who says armed groups displaced by recent U.S.–Nigerian military airstrikes in Sokoto State are now infiltrating communities in his region.

According to Ejeh, terrorists targeted in coordinated air operations in December have not been eliminated but instead relocated across state borders, spreading insecurity into rural Benue communities. He described a surge in attacks on Agatu villages, warning that innocent residents are now facing “unprecedented terror” as fleeing fighters establish new footholds.

The council chairman said intelligence reports and local accounts indicate that the militants, after being dislodged from Sokoto, are moving into neighbouring states, with Agatu among the hardest hit. He stressed that what was intended as a strategic blow against terrorism may now be creating a dangerous spillover effect, exposing vulnerable farming communities to renewed violence.

In response to the escalating attacks, Ejeh announced a decisive policy shift: the immediate cancellation of a 2017 grazing agreement that allowed herdsmen access to Adepati Island. He argued that the agreement, originally framed as a peacebuilding measure, had instead compromised community safety and enabled armed elements to operate within Agatu territory.

Describing the pact as an arrangement made “under the guise of promoting peaceful coexistence,” Ejeh accused previous local administrations of placing diplomacy above the security of residents. He declared the agreement null and void, ordered all armed herders to vacate Agatu land, and emphasized that no portion of Agatu belongs to herders under any guise.

Ejeh further revealed that security agencies have begun arrests and investigations, warning that anyone found collaborating with armed groups will face the full weight of the law. He maintained that the people of Agatu have reached a firm position: no future engagement with herders will occur unless it is conducted lawfully, transparently, and only after broad consultation with traditional rulers and community stakeholders.

The development raises urgent national questions: Are military airstrikes merely displacing terrorists rather than dismantling their networks? Is Nigeria witnessing a dangerous redistribution of insecurity from one region to another? And can local governments withstand the security fallout without stronger federal coordination?

As communities in Benue confront the consequences of a conflict they did not initiate, the Agatu chairman’s warning highlights a growing fear that counterterrorism victories in one state may be creating new frontlines elsewhere, leaving civilians trapped in the crossfire of shifting militant movements.

Why Are Nigerian Nurses Being Forced to Do Cleaners’ Jobs? Are Hospital CMDs Exploiting Strikes to Intimidate Health Workers Across the Country?

A growing controversy is shaking Nigeria’s healthcare sector after the Elegant Nurses Forum accused hospital managements across the country of forcing nurses to perform cleaning and other menial duties, a practice the group describes as unethical, unlawful, and professionally degrading.

In a press statement signed by Nurse Thomas Abiodun Olamide, the forum said it had received multiple complaints from health institutions nationwide, alleging that some Chief Medical Directors (CMDs) are exploiting the ongoing strike by hospital cleaners under the Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU) to compel nurses to take over sanitation work.

According to the forum, this practice violates professional ethics, international best practices, and the legal framework governing nursing in Nigeria. It warned that compelling nurses to abandon clinical responsibilities for cleaning duties not only demeans the profession but also endangers patient safety and healthcare quality.

The group disclosed that over ten days ago, nurses at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Makurdi, Benue State, formally complained of threats and coercion to assume cleaners’ duties. Similar complaints were later received from the Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital (OOUTH), Sagamu, Ogun State, along with reports from other tertiary and secondary health facilities nationwide.

The forum expressed particular concern over the leadership at OOUTH, alleging a persistent pattern of intimidation and harassment of nurses by the hospital’s CMD. According to the statement, nurses were reportedly threatened with job loss, with allegations that political connections were being used to exert pressure. The forum described this as a gross abuse of office, questioning the competence, temperament, and ethical standing of such leadership.

It further alleged that political interference rather than merit has influenced some CMD appointments, warning that hospitals were being transformed into “tools of oppression” instead of institutions dedicated to patient-centred care.

Emphasising the professional role of nurses, the forum stated that nurses are trained healthcare practitioners whose duties include patient care, disease prevention, health promotion, and clinical management—not sanitation. Forcing them into menial tasks, it said, devalues their expertise, undermines healthcare delivery, and weakens the entire system.

In its demands, the Elegant Nurses Forum called for:

Immediate cessation of all intimidation, threats, and coercion of nurses into non-nursing duties;

Clear directives from federal and state health ministries prohibiting the assignment of cleaning or other unrelated tasks to nurses;

Independent investigations and disciplinary action against erring CMDs and administrators;

Protection of nurses from victimisation and harassment; and

Transparent, merit-based appointments to hospital leadership positions free from political interference.


The forum vowed it would not remain silent while nurses are treated as expendable labour and stripped of their professional identity. “Healthcare leadership must be about service, competence, and accountability—not intimidation, arrogance, and abuse of power,” the statement concluded.

As the allegations spread across multiple states, the central question remains: are hospital authorities protecting patient care—or sacrificing professionalism for power?

FCT DEPARTMENT OF CHILD DEVELOPMENT RESCUES CHILDREN FROM AN ORPHANAGE HOME

The Federal Capital Territory Administration, through the Department of Child Development under the Women Affairs Secretariat, has intensified efforts to protect vulnerable children with the commencement of a rescue and monitoring operation involving adopted children within the FCT, some of whom were reportedly brought in from Benue State.

The operation, conducted with the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and other security and social welfare agencies, led officials to an orphanage in Kagini, under the Bwari Area Council.

The intervention followed weeks of discreet investigations by the FCT Women Affairs Secretariat, led by the Director of Child Development, Dr. Idris Attah, over concerns about the orphanage’s operations and child welfare.

However, upon arrival, officials discovered the proprietress had fled hours earlier, abandoning the facility.

Authorities suspect her disappearance is linked to the investigation and possible violations of adoption and child protection laws.

Officials say Some of the rescued children have been identified and placed in protective custody, with arrangements underway for their safety, medical checks, and psychological support.

The FCT Administration reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing the Child Rights Act and sanitizing the adoption process, warning that offenders will face the law. Investigations continue as security agencies intensify efforts to locate the suspect and uncover the full scope of the orphanage’s activities.

Fire Razes Mopol 13 Police Mobile Force Office and Armoury in Benue as Facilities Burn to Ashes in Makurdi

A devastating fire outbreak has destroyed the Mopol 13 Police Mobile Force (PMF) office and armoury in Makurdi, the Benue State capital. The incident occurred in the early hours of Sunday, January 4, 2026, with video evidence showing the entire facility engulfed in flames and reduced to ashes.

SaharaReporters obtained footage capturing the scale of the destruction, including the armoury and offices, while a distressed narrator in the video confirmed that even the Squadron Commander’s office was affected. As of the time of reporting, the cause of the fire remains unclear, with authorities yet to confirm whether it was triggered by an electrical fault or another factor.

The incident has raised serious concerns about security, loss of police assets, and safety of armaments, as investigations are expected to be launched to determine the origin of the inferno and assess the extent of damage to police operations in the state.

George Akume’s Wife Urges SGF to Return to Christianity Following Marriage to Queen Zaynab

Mrs. Regina Akume, wife of Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) Senator George Akume, has publicly urged her husband to return to Christianity, stating that his achievements were rooted in his Christian faith. Speaking at her son’s wedding reception in Makurdi, Benue State, she advised him not to abandon Christianity despite his recent marriage to Queen Zaynab Ngohemba-George Akume Dajoh. Queen Zaynab, formerly married to the Ooni of Ife, had previously confirmed the end of her 17-month marriage to the monarch. The statement by Mrs. Akume has sparked discussions across social media regarding faith, leadership, and family values.

More US Airstrikes Coming As Congressman Riley Moore Says Trump’s Nigeria Strikes Are Bringing Hope, Security To Christians

United States Congressman Riley Moore has said that additional American airstrikes against terrorist camps in Nigeria are imminent, dismissing claims that President Donald Trump’s actions could trigger war. Moore stated that the Christmas Day airstrikes, carried out in coordination with the Nigerian government, have boosted morale and renewed hope among vulnerable communities, particularly Christians facing violence from ISIS-linked groups, Boko Haram and Fulani militants. He cited widespread killings and displacement, especially in Benue State, and stressed that the military operation is only the first phase of a broader counterterrorism effort supported by Nigerian authorities.

JUST IN: Notorious criminal named Fidelis Guyama, known for organizing kidnappings and armed robberies across Taraba, Benue, and Plateau States, has been arrested. He was captured by troops from Operation Whirl Stroke (6 Brigade, Nigerian Army) during an intelligence-led operation on December 21, 2025, in Vaase community, Ukum LGA, Benue State. He is believed to be a key leader behind several criminal activities in the region.

Terrorists Relocate in Northern Nigeria After US Airstrikes, New Hideouts Reportedly Uncovered

Following US missile strikes on Christmas Day targeting Islamic State hideouts in northwestern Nigeria, suspected terrorists have reportedly begun relocating to evade surveillance. Community leaders and security sources in Sokoto State observed small-scale movements of armed groups toward remote forests and border areas. While the strikes caused property damage and some injuries, no fatalities were reported. The Sokoto State government and security agencies are intensifying patrols and joint operations to prevent infiltration into safer communities. In Benue State, traditional leaders noted an influx of armed herders fleeing from the north, raising security concerns. President Trump’s airstrikes were praised by local leaders for disrupting terrorist operations, with calls for expanded operations in other northern states.

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Our Leaders Are Human Beings”: Queen Zaynab’s Aide Speaks as Benue Community Celebrates SGF George Akume’s Marriage

David Adeoye, media aide to Queen Zaynab Otiti-Obanor, has reacted to the recent marriage between the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and the former Ooni of Ife’s queen. According to Adeoye, the people of Benue State have warmly welcomed the union, describing it as a new chapter marked by personal peace and stability after Akume reportedly lived separately from his former spouse for years. Community leaders, youth groups, and elders praised Akume’s discretion and composure, noting that leadership thrives when those in office find balance and peace in their personal lives.

BREAKING: SGF George Akume Marries Queen Zaynab, Formerly Married to Ooni of Ife

George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has married Queen Zaynab Ngohemba-George Akume Dajoh, formerly married to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. The marriage announcement was made by the Dajoh family on Facebook, welcoming Queen Zaynab into the family and Benue State. Queen Zaynab, previously known as Olori Wuraola during her royal marriage, had divorced the Ooni in 2017 and later married a wealthy Arab prince, with whom she reportedly has a daughter. The union with SGF Akume marks her latest high-profile marriage. Several photos of the couple and family members have circulated online, highlighting the festive celebration and family reception.

BREAKING: SGF George Akume Marries Queen Zaynab, Formerly Married to Ooni of Ife

George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), has married Queen Zaynab Ngohemba-George Akume Dajoh, formerly married to the Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi. The marriage announcement was made by the Dajoh family on Facebook, welcoming Queen Zaynab into the family and Benue State. Queen Zaynab, previously known as Olori Wuraola during her royal marriage, had divorced the Ooni in 2017 and later married a wealthy Arab prince, with whom she reportedly has a daughter. The union with SGF Akume marks her latest high-profile marriage. Several photos of the couple and family members have circulated online, highlighting the festive celebration and family reception.

Five Killed, Many Abducted as Suspected Herdsmen Launch Deadly Ambush on Ortese Community in Benue State

At least five people have been confirmed dead, several others injured, and an unidentified number of residents abducted following a deadly attack on Ortese community in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. The violent incident occurred on Tuesday, December 24, 2025, along the Igyungu Aze–Yogbo Road, triggering panic and a mass displacement of residents.

Local sources disclosed that the attack was allegedly carried out by suspected armed herdsmen, who reportedly staged a coordinated ambush along the road. According to eyewitnesses, the attackers barricaded the Ortese–Yogbo route before opening fire indiscriminately on commuters and villagers who were either travelling or hiding in nearby bushes.

Among those killed were Solo Uchi, Alhaji Iorlaha, and Tersoo Uker, while two other victims are yet to be formally identified. Community members fear the death toll may rise, as several residents remain missing and local youths continue search efforts in surrounding bushes and farmlands.

One of the deceased, Tersoo Uker, was an Internally Displaced Person (IDP) who had fled earlier violence and was living in the Igyungu Aze camp. He was reportedly gathering grass behind the camp to roof a makeshift shelter due to severe overcrowding when he was attacked and killed.

Residents described the scene as horrifying, recounting how some victims were shot dead instantly, while others were chased into the bush during the assault. A local youth leader said the attackers deliberately targeted vulnerable civilians, leaving the community traumatised.

“This attack happened just two days after another deadly incident in Daudu where two people were killed,” a community source said, highlighting a worrying pattern of recurring violence in the area.

The abduction of several residents has intensified fear, forcing many families to flee Ortese community for safer locations. Survivors are reportedly taking refuge in neighbouring towns and IDP camps amid growing insecurity.

The latest incident has renewed calls for urgent government intervention, enhanced security deployment, and decisive action to curb persistent attacks in Benue State, which has long been plagued by communal violence, armed herdsmen attacks, and mass displacement.

As of the time of reporting, security agencies had yet to release an official statement, while residents continue to demand protection and accountability to prevent further bloodshed.

Missing Nigerian Police Inspector Found Dead in Benue Bush Weeks After Disappearing During Joint Security Operation

The decomposed body of Inspector Mohammed Yakubu, a Nigerian police officer declared missing months earlier, has been found in a bush in Guma Local Government Area of Benue State. Yakubu, attached to the 13 Police Mobile Force and deployed to the Operation Zenda Joint Task Force, reportedly disappeared on June 13, 2025, while on official duty in Tse Keleke, a community known for persistent insecurity. His corpse was discovered on December 18, 2025, near the area where he was last seen. As of the time of reporting, the Benue State Police Command has yet to issue an official statement, while investigations are ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding his death. The incident has renewed concerns over the safety of security personnel operating in volatile parts of Benue State amid rising attacks on officers.

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Nigerian Army Arrests Notorious Bandit Kingpin Fidelis Gayama in Benue–Taraba Border Operation

The Nigerian Army has captured a high-profile bandit leader, Fidelis Gayama, during an intelligence-led operation in Vaase Community, Ukum Local Government Area, Benue State. Gayama, linked to multiple kidnappings and armed robberies along the Benue–Taraba axis, is reportedly associated with another wanted criminal, Aka Dogo. The arrest, carried out by troops of Forward Operating Base Wukari under Operation Whirl Stroke, is considered a major blow to criminal networks in the region. The suspect is now in military custody and will be handed over to authorities for investigation and prosecution. The Army urged residents to continue providing credible intelligence to aid ongoing security operations.

Benue Government to Distribute N1.275 Billion in Private Donations to Yelwata Attack Victims

The Benue State Government announced plans to distribute N1.275 billion in private donations to victims of the Yelwata community attacks. The Technical Committee, chaired by Secretary to the State Government Deborah Aber, revealed that the funds would address both immediate relief and long-term needs of internally displaced persons (IDPs). Distribution activities, including food, non-food items, and conditional cash transfers for 1,000 IDPs, have begun. Construction of new houses for cluster settlements is ongoing, alongside a major water treatment plant in Naka to benefit IDPs and host communities. The interventions aim to restore livelihoods, ensure safety, and promote sustainable solutions following the June attacks that killed at least 100 people.

Buruku PHCs and Disability Exclusion: How Poor Infrastructure, Staffing Gaps and Inaccessible Design Deny Persons With Disabilities Primary Healthcare in Benue State

This report examines the state of Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in Buruku Local Government Area of Benue State, revealing how chronic infrastructure deficits, staffing shortages and poor facility design create invisible but powerful barriers for persons with disabilities. Using data from the CheckMyPHC platform and the National Primary Health Care Development Agency (NPHCDA), the article highlights gaps in electricity, water supply, delivery rooms, skilled birth attendants and essential medical equipment. Beyond these systemic failures, it exposes how uneven terrain, inadequate ramps, lack of signage, poor lighting and absence of disability-inclusive communication tools systematically exclude people with mobility, visual and hearing impairments. The findings underscore how these shortcomings undermine maternal and child health, weaken community trust and contradict Nigeria’s commitment to equitable healthcare under Sustainable Development Goal 3, calling for targeted funding, inclusive planning and stronger accountability at local and state levels.

US Lawmakers Blame Radical Islam for Mass Killing of Christians in Nigeria

US lawmakers, including Mary Miller and Riley Moore, have attributed the mass killings of Christians in Nigeria to radical Islamic extremists. Moore visited Benue State, meeting internally displaced Christians who recounted horrific violence, including the murder of family members and attacks on women and children. The United States House Committee on Appropriations emphasized its commitment to religious freedom and atrocity response, directing efforts to inform policy recommendations under the NSRP bill. Lawmakers also engaged Nigerian officials, including National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, discussing measures to combat terrorism, enhance security, and protect vulnerable populations in the North-East and Middle Belt regions.

Disability Groups Accuse Benue Government Officials of Diverting ₦50 Million Presidential Empowerment Fund, Petition EFCC

The Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities (JONAPWD) in Benue State has accused state government officials, including the Principal Special Assistant on Special Needs, Anshe Bemshima, and Special Adviser on Women Affairs, Scholastica Ben-Sor, of misappropriating ₦50 million Presidential Empowerment Fund intended for persons with disabilities. Only 42 of the 250 intended beneficiaries reportedly received partial payments of ₦150,000 instead of the full ₦200,000, with N50,000 allegedly deducted under the pretext of a “free medical outreach.” JONAPWD petitioned the EFCC, ICPC, and DSS, urging investigation, recovery of funds, prosecution of culpable officials, and full disbursement of the grant to the rightful beneficiaries.

Pastor Dachomo Reassures Nigerian Christians: “Help Is On The Way” After U.S. Delegation Visit

Rev. Ezekiel Dachomo, a Plateau-based pastor and human rights activist, reassured persecuted Christian communities in Nigeria that “help is on the way,” following a visit by a U.S. Congressional delegation to Benue State. The delegation, led by Rep. Riley M. Moore, documented repeated attacks on local communities, describing the violence as part of a “horrific genocidal campaign.” Dachomo highlighted the growing international attention to the crisis and reiterated his commitment to speaking the truth despite threats and opposition.



#EzekielDachomo #ChristianPersecution #NigeriaMiddleBelt

U.S. Congressman Alleges Fulani Militants Conduct “Genocidal Campaign” Against Christians in Nigeria

U.S. Republican Congressman Riley Moore has described violent attacks on Christian communities in Nigeria’s Middle Belt as a “genocidal campaign,” following a high-risk visit to Benue State. Speaking on Fox News, Moore recounted touring IDP camps and meeting victims of the attacks, including women who witnessed the murder of their children. He accused Fulani militants of targeting Christians deliberately, dismissing explanations of land disputes or climate pressures. Moore revealed that he will report his findings to former President Donald Trump and urged U.S. authorities to engage Nigerian leaders on the crisis, emphasizing that IDP camps offer little protection and that communities remain under severe threat.