Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, has indefinitely suspended his Chief Press Secretary, Hon. Ukeyima John UKmoni, over his participation in the #EndBenueGenocide protest, which he joined despite explicit orders to refrain.
The suspension was announced via a letter dated June 15, 2025, issued by the Office of the Principal Special Assistant on Youth and Media Mobilisation and signed by Mr. Lubem Terkura, also known as Aluta General.
The letter accused UKmoni of “working against the explicit directives of your Principal,” and described his actions as “a serious breach of your duties and the trust placed in your office.”
UKmoni had taken to Facebook a day before the protest, rallying participants and affirming his commitment to the cause.
“Tomorrow morning at wurukum roundabout, Black on Black outfit. We are marching to the Wurukum Roundabout for a peaceful message to Stop Benue K!lli.ngs. We are not here for violence but to Stop Benue K!l.lings. After all #IKnowWhereIBelong This is just the only message we are passing across #StopBenueKillings.”
He also shared a deeply personal reaction to a viral video of a woman whose five children and mother were brutally murdered and burned. “What if I’m the one?” he wrote, explaining that the emotional impact compelled him to join the protest.
Following his suspension, UKmoni again took to Facebook, confirming he received the letter online and expressing gratitude for his time in office.
“Good morning Hon PSA to the Governor of Benue State on Youth and Media Mobilization Hon Krayzeetee Atu Terver, I received your letter via Facebook this morning that you have suspended me immediately and indefinitely.
“I accept my indefinite suspension even though I wasn’t given any Appointment Letter officially.
“You and many people know I am not the type that will ever speak ill or Negative about anybody I have ever worked for or will work for in future no matter the circumstances because I believe Silence is golden when it comes to such.
“So I appreciate the little time we both spent together during this appointment, you are my brother and will always be a brother to me.
“I wish you all the Best in life. thank you after all #IKnowWhereIBelong.”
The #EndBenueGenocide protest emerged in response to renewed violence in the state, as citizens demand urgent action and accountability from both state and federal authorities.
