Benue State Celebrates 50 Years with Legacy Honors and Clemency

Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has announced significant initiatives to mark the state’s 50th anniversary. During a live broadcast from the Government House in Makurdi on February 3, 2026, he outlined plans to honor past leaders and grant clemency to inmates. This commemoration highlights the state’s rich history and the contributions of influential figures.

Among the prominent figures honored is the late former Head of State, Gen. Murtala Muhammed, who was instrumental in the creation of Benue State on February 3, 1976. Governor Alia emphasized the need to recognize individuals who laid the groundwork for the state’s development. He stated, “There is every need to immortalize past heroes and those who contributed in building legacies for generations to inherit.” In his view, memorializing Muhammed is essential given his pivotal role in the state’s formation.

Honoring Influential Indigenes

In addition to Muhammed, the governor announced the renaming of the Benue Printing and Publishing Corporation to the Dan Agbese Printing and Publishing Corporation, in memory of the late veteran journalist and statesman, Chief Dan Agbese. This change reflects the governor’s commitment to celebrating the achievements of distinguished Benue indigenes, both past and present.

Alia further indicated that other legacy projects would be established to honor various notable figures from the state. Among those to be recognized are Wanteregh Paul Unongo, Elder Isaac Shaahu, Sen. Suemo Chia, Gen. Atom Kpera, and Tashaku Oradi. This initiative aims to ensure that their contributions are remembered and appreciated by future generations.

Clemency Initiatives for Inmates

As part of the anniversary festivities, the governor exercised his prerogative of mercy, granting clemency to a total of 14 inmates serving different jail terms across Benue State. Notably, one inmate, Terhumba Aondona, saw his sentence reduced from 10 years to 4 years.

The individuals granted clemency include: Akaajime Imoter, Kongusu Terzugwe, Terngu Orshi, Ornaa Achagh, Zwa Achir, Terkimbi Amadu, Iorpenda Christian, Aondowaae Terlumun, Oriba John, Sughnen Terfa James, Akaahar Isaac, Ordam Thankgod, Gwayem Agba James, and Iorfa Terkimbi. These decisions reflect a compassionate approach to governance and a desire to provide second chances to those who have made mistakes.

The announcements were made public via a statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor of Benue State, Sir Tersoo Kula. The governor’s legacy initiatives and the clemency decisions together underscore a commitment to remembering the past while fostering a more inclusive future for all citizens of Benue State.