Ortom laments back-to-back killings of Benue scholars, seeks decisive security action

Henry Iyorkase, Makurdi

Former Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, has condemned the gruesome killing of renowned historian and Professor of History at Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, Professor Gabriel Nyityo, describing the incident as a tragic and unacceptable attack on humanity and the academic community.

In a statement issued in Makurdi on Tuesday, Ortom expressed profound shock and sadness over the murder of the respected scholar, who was reportedly killed by gunmen at his residence in Adaka, Makurdi.

The former governor said the killing once again underscores the worsening security situation in Benue State and other parts of the country, where innocent citizens continue to fall victim to violent attacks.

According to Ortom, the tragic incident came barely a week after another shocking attack in which former Secretary to the Benue State Government, Professor David Salifu, lost his life after sustaining gunshot injuries during an attack by suspected terrorists along the Wukari-Makurdi Road.

He described the back-to-back deaths of Professors Nyityo and Salifu as a devastating loss not only to Benue State but also to Nigeria’s academic community, noting that both men made remarkable contributions to education, public service and national development.

“The killing of Professor Gabriel Nyityo is a tragic and unacceptable assault on humanity. It is deeply disturbing that criminals could invade the home of such a distinguished scholar and brutally cut short a life dedicated to teaching, research, mentorship and the advancement of knowledge,” Ortom said.

He described the late Professor Nyityo as an accomplished academic, intellectual and patriot whose scholarship and commitment to excellence positively influenced generations of students and strengthened the academic reputation of Moses Orshio Adasu University.

Ortom lamented that the growing wave of killings, kidnappings and other violent crimes has created fear and uncertainty across Benue communities, leaving residents increasingly vulnerable to criminal attacks.

He noted that when eminent personalities who have devoted their lives to education, public service and nation-building can no longer feel safe either in their homes or while travelling on public roads, it raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of current security measures.

The former governor stressed that the successive killings of Professors Nyityo and Salifu, alongside numerous attacks on other innocent citizens, highlight the urgent need for stronger, coordinated and more decisive action to combat insecurity and restore public confidence.

He urged security agencies to thoroughly investigate both incidents and ensure that those responsible are swiftly identified, arrested and prosecuted to serve as a deterrent to others.

According to Ortom, justice for the victims would not only honour their memories but also reassure residents that criminality will not be allowed to thrive unchecked.

He further called on the Federal Government and relevant security authorities to intensify efforts to protect lives and property across Benue State, insisting that no society can achieve meaningful development under an atmosphere of fear and insecurity.

The former governor extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Professor Gabriel Nyityo, the management, staff and students of Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, the academic community in Benue State and across the country, as well as friends and associates of the deceased.

He prayed that God would grant the bereaved families the strength to bear the irreparable losses and give eternal rest to the departed scholars.