Former Secretary to the Benue State Government (SSG), Professor David Salifu, has died after sustaining gunshot injuries during an ambush by suspected bandits along the Wukari–Makurdi highway, in another deadly attack highlighting growing insecurity on the route.
Former Benue State SSG and academic, Professor David Salifu, has died after suffering gunshot wounds in an attack by suspected bandits along the Wukari–Makurdi road. Although he reportedly escaped the immediate ambush and was rushed to hospital for treatment, he later succumbed to his injuries.
According to reports, the incident occurred on Thursday while Salifu was travelling from Wukari, where he lectured at the Federal University Wukari, to Makurdi.
Suspected armed bandits intercepted his vehicle along the notorious highway in what is believed to have been an attempted kidnapping. During the attack, the assailants opened fire, leaving the former SSG with severe gunshot wounds. Despite managing to escape the attackers, he was critically injured.
Salifu was initially treated before being transferred to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital, Makurdi, where doctors battled to save his life. He was, however, confirmed dead in the early hours of Friday.
Professor Salifu served as Secretary to the Benue State Government during the administration of former Governor Gabriel Suswam before returning to academia as a lecturer at the Federal University Wukari.
His death has sparked renewed concerns over insecurity along the Wukari–Makurdi corridor, a highway that has witnessed repeated attacks, kidnappings and armed robberies in recent years despite ongoing security operations.
The former SSG’s death was confirmed by political associates and close family members.
As of the time of reporting, security agencies had yet to announce any arrests in connection with the attack, while investigations into the incident were said to be ongoing.
The killing of Professor Salifu has further intensified calls for improved security on major highways linking Benue and Taraba states. Residents and political stakeholders have urged security agencies to strengthen patrols and dismantle criminal networks operating along the corridor to prevent further loss of lives.