…Residents alert authorities after strange arrival at private property
Authorities in Benue State on Saturday intercepted 33 men transported from various northern states under suspicious circumstances, triggering public anxiety over possible coordinated attacks amidst ongoing unrest in the region.
The men, who reportedly arrived in two buses, attempted to settle at a private residence located in Gyado Villa, Makurdi. Their arrival without prior notice or official clearance raised immediate suspicion among residents and youth leaders.
Following a distress call placed by concerned individuals including Mr Barns Dzege and staff of Villa Suites, a combined team of state officials and security operatives stormed the premises.
The response team included the Benue State Commissioner for Works and Housing, the Commissioner for Humanitarian Affairs, and officials from the local government, who coordinated the arrest and preliminary investigation.
According to Mr Asortar James Asortar, Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Media, the 33 men were allegedly mobilised by a company that was only recently registered on May 8, 2025, and claimed to be operating as a non-governmental organisation (NGO).
He said, “Upon arrival at Villa Suites, it was discovered that all 33 individuals were brought in that same day from different northern states.
“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.”
Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia commended the proactive efforts of Gyado Villa residents and the Villa Suites team for raising alarm before the situation escalated.
He said, “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.”
