Benue mourns ex-SSG killed by suspected bandits

Benue State, Nigeria – The Benue State Government is mourning the loss of its former Secretary to the State Government, Prof. David Salifu, who succumbed to gunshot wounds sustained in an attack by suspected bandits. The incident occurred on Thursday along the Wukari-Makurdi road as Salifu was traveling to Makurdi.

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On behalf of His Excellency, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, Governor of Benue State, the Government and the good people of Benue State, the Secretary to the Government of the State, Dcns. Serumun Deborah Aber extends heartfelt condolences to the Salifu family over this painful loss.

Salifu died in the early hours of Friday from his injuries. In a statement released the same day, the current Secretary to the State Government, Deborah Aber, eulogized the late professor. She described him as a committed public servant whose work in governance and education significantly impacted the state. Aber highlighted Salifu's "uncommon diligence, integrity and intellectual distinction" during his service.

The government's statement, issued on behalf of Governor Hyacinth Alia, further noted Salifu's widespread respect earned through his contributions to public administration, scholarship, and human capital development. His legacy is described as enduring. The government extended heartfelt condolences to the family, friends, and the academic community, joining them in mourning the "illustrious son of Benue."

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The Government of Benue State joins the family, friends, the academic community, and all who knew him in mourning this illustrious son of Benue.

Officials prayed for strength for the family to bear the profound loss and for the repose of Salifu's soul. The government's message underscored the deep sense of grief within the state over the passing of a respected figure.

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served the state with “uncommon diligence, integrity and intellectual distinction.”