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In a move that has sent shockwaves across Benue State, Governor Hyacinth Alia has reportedly directed the immediate demolition of Duku Park, a popular recreational facility located in Wurukum, Makurdi. The property, which sits on a large expanse of land along the Katsina-Ala Street axis, belongs to Chief Mrs. Ashi Wende, widow of the late Chief Major Uke Wende, a respected military officer and traditional title holder.
According to multiple sources and a widely circulated social media post that surfaced Tuesday evening, the Benue State Urban Development Board has issued a demolition notice to Mrs. Wende, stating that bulldozers will move into the park between tonight and tomorrow morning to raze the entire facility.
The genesis of the crisis reportedly began when Governor Alia personally approached Mrs. Wende, requesting that she surrender the land to the state government. When the widow firmly refused, citing her legitimate ownership backed by a valid Certificate of Occupancy, the governor allegedly moved to remove her from her position as Executive Secretary of the Benue State Primary Healthcare Board.
Faced with what she perceived as intimidation, Mrs. Wende escalated the matter to the United Nations, which reportedly intervened by writing an official letter to Governor Alia. The UN warning was clear: any attempt to forcibly remove her from office or seize her property could lead to the suspension of international aid to Benue State. Despite this stern caution from a global body, the governor has reportedly pressed ahead with the demolition order.
Eyewitnesses and concerned citizens claim the park is not encroaching on any road or public infrastructure and has operated peacefully for years with all necessary legal documentation. Many are asking why a facility that has served as a recreational space for Makurdi residents for decades is suddenly being targeted for midnight demolition.
As expected, the development has sparked outrage online and across the state capital. The phrase “YES FATHER” – often used mockingly by critics to describe perceived unquestioning loyalty demanded by the governor – has resurfaced, with many now asking: “WHY FATHER?”
At the time of publishing, there has been no official statement from the Benue State Government or the Urban Development Board confirming or denying the planned demolition. Meanwhile, residents of Makurdi are anxiously watching to see whether bulldozers will indeed roll into Duku Park under the cover of darkness.
This latest episode adds to growing concerns about land rights, use of executive power, and the treatment of widows and private property owners under the current administration in Benue State.
