Alia Gives N380m Relief To Widows Of fallen Security Officers In Benue

Tears of grief turned into tears of relief in Makurdi when Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, gave financial support to families of security personnel killed in the line of duty.

The governor met with 76 families of fallen officers at Government House on September 6, 2025, and announced a cash gift of N5 million each, amounting to N380 million.

The gathering was filled with emotion as widows dressed in mourning clothes arrived quietly, unaware of the governor’s plan. Many broke down in tears when the announcement was made, describing the gesture as a lifeline after months of hardship following the loss of their breadwinners.

The families represented officers of the police, military, civil defence and community protection guards who were killed in various attacks by armed herdsmen and bandits across Benue in the past year. Records show that at least 76 security personnel lost their lives during raids and ambushes in Guma, Agatu, Gwer West and other local government areas.

Governor Alia, while making the presentations, said the sacrifices of the fallen heroes would never be forgotten. He promised scholarships for their children, skills training and small business support for their spouses, and regular visits from state officials to ensure they are not abandoned. He stressed that peace must return to Benue and vowed that the lives lost would not be in vain.

He also commended the Inspector-General of Police, the Chief of Defence Staff and other service chiefs for their continued support, while appreciating President Bola Tinubu for backing efforts to restore stability in the state.

The Commissioner of Police in Benue, Ifeanyi Emenari, described the gesture as unprecedented, noting that it would bring comfort to bereaved families and motivate serving officers to give their best. Security commanders in attendance also pledged renewed commitment to the fight against insecurity in the state.

For many of the widows, the intervention marked the first real hope of rebuilding their lives after devastating losses. Beyond the money, the promise of education and future support for their children offered reassurance that their husbands’ sacrifices had not been forgotten.