Join our WhatsApp channel HERE for the latest Benue news and updates!
The Benue State Urban Development Board (BSUDB) has moved swiftly to clarify events surrounding the controversial demolition of an illegal structure along Kashim Ibrahim Road in Makurdi, following widespread reports and outrage over the felling of trees at the site.
In an official statement released this morning, the board confirmed that Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, during a routine inspection of urban development projects in the state capital, personally encountered workers illegally cutting down trees on a private property undergoing construction. Upon verification, it was established that the developer had no approved building permit nor any authorization from the relevant authorities to fell the trees.
Acting decisively, the governor issued an executive order for the immediate demolition of the unlawful structure. The BSUDB stressed that the action was strictly in line with town planning and environmental regulations, and was not driven by political or personal motives.
The board expressed concern over what it described as “misleading narratives” circulating on social media and traditional platforms, alleging that the demolition was politically motivated or targeted. It urged members of the public to disregard such reports and instead focus on verified information from official sources.
“The government of Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia remains committed to preserving Benue’s green infrastructure,” the statement read. “Tree felling without authorization is a clear violation of state forestry laws, and the administration will not condone impunity in urban development.”
The developer in question, according to the board, has a documented history of flouting planning regulations, displaying hostility toward BSUDB staff, and ignoring previous stop-work notices. Today’s demolition, therefore, represents lawful enforcement rather than arbitrary action.
The BSUDB further reminded residents that any request to remove or prune trees on private or public property must be channeled through the State Department of Forestry for proper assessment and approval.
As Makurdi continues to grow, the board called on citizens to be vigilant and to always insist on official approvals before commencing developments, warning that unchecked illegal construction and environmental violations undermine orderly urban planning and public safety.
The statement was signed by Utah Tivlumun Panshak of the Information Unit, Benue State Urban Development Board.
While emotions ran high on social media following videos of the tree felling, today’s clarification paints a picture of a government determined to enforce environmental and planning laws, even when such actions attract controversy. Whether this incident will deter future violations or spark further debate remains to be seen, but for now, the message from the Alia administration is clear: development without due process will not be tolerated in Benue State.
