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The Benue State Government has reaffirmed its decision to demolish all illegal structures along the road stretch from Savannah Roundabout to Government House in Makurdi as part of the ongoing dualization project aimed at improving infrastructure, traffic flow, and the aesthetic appeal of the state capital.
In a detailed press release issued on Thursday, February 19, 2026, Special Assistant to the Governor on Social Media, Asortart James Asortart, addressed what he described as misconceptions and misinformation circulating on social media, particularly regarding an overstretched building in District 4 owned by Hon. Dickson Tarkighir.
According to the statement, the structure in question was marked for demolition as far back as 2024 when it was first constructed in violation of planning regulations. Despite repeated advice and notices issued over two years ago to remove the illegal extension, no compliance was recorded by the owner.
The government emphasized that the dualization of the Savannah Roundabout–Government House Road is a long-planned initiative originally designed as a double-lane carriageway. The current single-lane state of the road has become a source of embarrassment, especially during the reception of high-profile visitors, including the President of Nigeria.
Asortart stressed that the removal of encroachments is necessary for the smooth execution of the project, the beautification of Makurdi, and the overall progress of the state. He dismissed suggestions of personal bias or vendetta, stating clearly that “a club is not more important than the development of our state,” and that infrastructure advancement must always take precedence over individual or private interests.
The release reiterated the administration’s commitment under Governor Hyacinth Iormemem Alia to good governance, infrastructural development, and the systematic removal of all illegal structures impeding public projects. No specific timeline for the commencement of demolitions was provided in the statement, but the government indicated that the process would proceed in line with established legal and administrative procedures.
The announcement has reignited public discussion on urban planning enforcement, encroachment on public right-of-way, and the balance between private development and state-led infrastructure priorities in Makurdi. Residents and motorists along the affected corridor are expected to be closely monitoring further updates from the state government as the dualization works progress.
