Ex-Benue SSG dies after bandits’ attack

A former Secretary to the Benue State Government, David Salifu, has died from gunshot injuries sustained during an attack by suspected bandits along the Wukari–Zakibiam road.

Salifu, who served as SSG during the administration of former Benue State Governor Gabriel Suswam, reportedly died in the early hours of Friday while receiving treatment at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital.

The attack occurred on Thursday as the former SSG was travelling from Wukari to Makurdi along the road linking the two states.

According to eyewitnesses, the attackers, suspected to be kidnappers, intercepted his vehicle on the outskirts of Wukari and ordered him to alight and board a motorcycle. He was reportedly shot after challenging the assailants.

Salifu was also a lecturer at Federal University Wukari.

Confirming the incident, David Olofu, a close associate of the deceased, said Salifu succumbed to his injuries after being transferred to Makurdi for specialist treatment.

Olofu said the former SSG was initially taken to a hospital in Wukari before the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Wukari arranged an ambulance and a medical team to evacuate him to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital.

Despite efforts by medical personnel, Salifu died in the early hours of Friday.

Olofu described the deceased as a member of his campaign council and a trusted confidant, saying his death was a tragic loss.