Ortom Mourns Slain Professor, Calls for Decisive Security Action

The immediate past Governor of Benue State, Chief Samuel Ortom, has expressed deep shock and sadness over the gruesome killing of Professor Gabriel Nyityo, a renowned academic and Professor of History at Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi (MOAUM), describing the incident as a tragic and unacceptable assault on humanity.

In a statement signed by his Media Assistant, Paul Terhide, Chief Ortom condemned the killing of the respected scholar, who was reportedly murdered by gunmen at his residence in Adaka, Makurdi. He said the incident is a stark reminder of the worsening insecurity confronting Benue State and other parts of the country.
The former governor described the late Professor Nyityo as an accomplished academic, intellectual and patriot who devoted his life to teaching, research, mentorship and the advancement of knowledge. He noted that the deceased made remarkable contributions to academia and helped shape generations of students through his scholarship and unwavering commitment to excellence.
Ortom said it is deeply disturbing that criminals could invade the home of a distinguished scholar and take his life in such a brutal manner. He added that the killing comes at a time when innocent citizens are increasingly falling victim to violent attacks, kidnappings and other criminal activities, creating fear and uncertainty across communities.
He further observed that the murder of Professor Nyityo occurred just days after the death of former Secretary to the Benue State Government, Professor David Salifu, who succumbed to gunshot injuries sustained in an attack by suspected terrorists along the Wukari-Makurdi road.
According to Ortom, the back-to-back loss of two distinguished scholars and public intellectuals is a devastating blow to Benue State and a painful reflection of the deteriorating security situation. He said the tragic deaths of Professors Nyityo and Salifu have once again exposed the vulnerability of innocent citizens, including academics and other professionals, to violent attacks.
The former governor stated that when eminent personalities who have dedicated their lives to education, public service and nation-building can no longer feel safe in their homes or while travelling on public roads, it raises serious concerns about the effectiveness of current efforts to protect lives and property.
He stressed that the murder of Professor Nyityo, coming shortly after the killing of Professor David Salifu and numerous other innocent citizens, underscores the urgent need for decisive and coordinated action to tackle insecurity across the country.
Chief Ortom therefore urged security agencies to investigate both incidents thoroughly and ensure that everyone responsible is apprehended and brought to justice.
He also extended his heartfelt condolences to the family of the late Professor Nyityo, the management, staff and students of Moses Orshio Adasu University, Makurdi, the academic community in Benue State and beyond, as well as the friends, associates and all those affected by the painful loss.