Former Benue SSG shot dead by kidnappers

…Salifu death signals urgent need for North-Central highway security overhaul

​David Salifu, the former Secretary to the Benue State Government, has died after sustaining gunshot wounds during an attack by suspected kidnappers along the Wukari–Makurdi highway in Taraba State. This incident underscores the escalating insecurity on major transport routes across the North-Central region.

​The attack occurred on Thursday while Salifu was travelling from Wukari to Makurdi. Suspected kidnappers intercepted his vehicle in an apparent abduction attempt. Sources indicate that while Salifu attempted to escape, he was shot by the assailants. He was rushed to a hospital in Makurdi, where medical personnel worked to save him, but he was confirmed dead later that night.

​Security agencies remain silent
​The precise circumstances surrounding the attack remain unclear, and security agencies have yet to issue an official statement. Efforts to secure confirmation from the Benue State Police Command proved unsuccessful, as repeated calls to the Police Public Relations Officer went unanswered.

​This killing has renewed public apprehension regarding the deteriorating security situation along highways linking North-Central and North-East states. Despite ongoing security operations, incidents of kidnapping for ransom and armed attacks have become increasingly frequent.

​Analysts urge urgent intervention
​Motorists and commuters have repeatedly voiced concerns regarding the safety of interstate routes, particularly the Wukari–Makurdi corridor, which has been plagued by criminal gangs in recent months. Security analysts continue to urge the authorities to strengthen surveillance, increase patrols, and improve intelligence gathering along major highways to curb the threats posed by kidnappers and armed groups.

​Salifu’s death adds to the growing list of prominent Nigerians who have fallen victim to violent attacks amid the country’s persistent security challenges.