The Benue State Police Command has apprehended a 23-year-old suspect, Abdullahi Usman, in connection with the brutal killing of a university lecturer and his younger brother. The incident occurred at the residence of Professor Gabriel Nyityo in the Adaka community, Makurdi Local Government Area, in the early hours of Wednesday, July 8, 2026. The professor, a distinguished historian at Moses Orshio Adasu University (formerly Benue State University), was killed alongside his 19-year-old brother, Iorngee John Nyityo.
Details of the Attack
According to the police spokesperson, DSP Udeme Edet, the attack took place in the early hours of Wednesday. Officers from the ‘D’ Division responded to a distress call from the Adaka axis and discovered two dead bodies at the scene. The victims were identified as Professor Gabriel Saawua Nyityo, aged 58, and his younger brother, John Nyityo, aged 19. The assailants, described as unknown gunmen, fled the scene before the arrival of law enforcement.
Arrest of the Suspect
In a statement issued on Thursday, July 9, 2026, DSP Edet confirmed the arrest of Abdullahi Usman, a 23-year-old resident of Awe, Nasarawa State. The suspect is currently in police custody and is being interrogated to ascertain his role in the crime. The police spokesperson noted that investigations are ongoing to track down other suspects who may have been involved in the attack. “One Abdullahi Usman, 23yrs, of Awe, Nasarawa State, has been arrested in connection with the crime and investigation is still going on to get the remaining suspects,” the statement read.
Impact and Community Reaction
The murder of Professor Nyityo has sent shockwaves through the academic community and the Adaka neighborhood. Colleagues and students have expressed grief over the loss of a respected historian. The police have assured the public that they are working diligently to bring all perpetrators to justice. The command has also urged residents to provide any information that could aid the investigation. The incident highlights ongoing security challenges in Benue State, where violent attacks have been a concern for local communities.
