Former Benue State Secretary to the Government, David Salifu, has died from gunshot injuries sustained during a suspected kidnap attack along the outskirts of Wukari.
Salifu, a lecturer at Federal University Wukari, was reportedly attacked on Thursday while travelling from Wukari to Makurdi.
According to sources, armed men stopped his vehicle and attempted to abduct him. He was allegedly shot after refusing to climb onto a motorcycle the attackers intended to use to take him away.
The former SSG, who served under the administration of Gabriel Suswam, was initially taken to a hospital in Wukari before efforts were made to transfer him for advanced medical care. He eventually died in the early hours of Friday at the Benue State University Teaching Hospital.
Confirming the incident, the African Democratic Congress’ Benue South senatorial candidate, David Olofu, described the late professor as a close confidant and member of his campaign council.
Olofu said Salifu encountered the attackers shortly after leaving Wukari. He explained that following the shooting, the Vice-Chancellor of the Federal University Wukari released an ambulance with medical personnel to facilitate his transfer, but he was eventually taken to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi, where he succumbed to his injuries.
Reacting to the development, the Benue State Government, in a condolence message signed by Secretary to the State Government Deborah Aber, described Salifu as a public servant who served the state with diligence, integrity and intellectual distinction.
The government said his contributions to public administration, scholarship and human capital development earned him widespread respect and left a lasting legacy. It also prayed for strength and comfort for his family and for the repose of his soul.
Meanwhile, the campaign organisation of David Olofu has suspended all political activities in honour of the late former SSG.
In a statement issued by the campaign committee secretary, Friday Adakole, members were urged to refrain from political campaigns and instead pay dignified tributes to the deceased while extending condolences to his family, the Idoma nation and the country.
