In a significant development from Benue State, Mr. Lubem Terkula, widely known as Akuta General and serving as the Chief Press Secretary, has been placed on an immediate and indefinite suspension from duty.
The suspension, effective June 15, 2025, comes directly from the office of the Principal Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth, Ict and Media Mobilization, Hon. Terver Atu.
The suspension letter, dated June 15, 2025, explicitly states that the decision was made due to “actions that have been deemed as working against the explicit directives of your Principal.” It further describes such conduct as “a serious breach of your duties and the trust placed in your office.”
Amidst Benue Massacre
While the letter does not explicitly name the #EndBenueGenocide protest, sources close to the situation confirm that Terkula’s suspension is directly linked to his perceived involvement or support for the ongoing demonstrations.
The #EndBenueGenocide movement is a vocal advocacy group protesting the persistent insecurity and killings in parts of Benue State.
During the period of indefinite suspension, Mr. Terkula is prohibited from performing any official duties, responsibilities, or representing the office in any capacity. The letter also clarifies that the duration and any further actions will be determined following a comprehensive review of the matter.
This move by Governor Alia’s administration signals a firm stance against perceived insubordination or actions that contradict the government’s directives, particularly in sensitive matters like public protests concerning security.
The indefinite nature of the suspension leaves Mr. Terkula’s future in the Chief Press Secretary role uncertain.
