By Terdue Atondu, Makurdi
The Tor Jechira and Chairman of the Jechira Intermediate Area Traditional Council, HRH Chief Engr. Edward Ujege, has summoned an emergency expanded council meeting following the temporary closure of Catholic institutions in Mbadede, Vandeikya Local Government Area of Benue State, over recurring fire outbreaks at St. Winifred’s Girls Secondary School, Ihugh.
The Catholic Diocese of Gboko, under the leadership of Bishop Williams Avenya, ordered the temporary closure of the institutions on Monday, October 12, 2026, following continued fire incidents at the school.
In response, the Jechira Intermediate Area Traditional Council has scheduled an emergency meeting for Tuesday, October 20, 2026, to deliberate on the development and seek lasting solutions to the situation.
A press statement issued by Comrade Stephen Suega TseAgu, Chief Press and Private Secretary to the Tor Jechira, and made available to journalists, said the meeting would bring together traditional title holders, community development associations, local government chairmen and other relevant stakeholders.
Those invited include holders of Jechira traditional chieftaincy titles; the Jechira Development Association (JEDA); Kunav United Development Association (KUDA); Ikyor Development Association (IKYODA); GYASDA; and SHADA.
Also expected at the meeting are the Chairman of Vandeikya Local Government Council, Hon. Dennis Terkura Guda; the Chairman of Konshisha Local Government Council, Hon. Moses Terfa Chikyaa; all kindred heads in Mbadede District; and the kindred head of Mbashumba in Mbaaka District.
The traditional council appealed to the people of Jechira and the general public to remain peaceful and law-abiding while efforts are made to address the circumstances surrounding the closure of the Catholic institutions.
It expressed concern over the development and stressed the need for stakeholders to work together to find a lasting solution that would safeguard the future of Jechira Nation.
The council also acknowledged the decision of the Catholic Diocese of Gboko to temporarily close the institutions, expressing hope that the situation would be resolved and normalcy restored.
It urged all invited stakeholders to attend the meeting punctually, emphasising the importance of collective deliberation in addressing the matter.
The emergency expanded council meeting is scheduled to hold as follows on Tuesday, October 20, 2026 by 10am at Jechira Traditional Council Hall, Uganden Village, Vandeikya.
The meeting is expected to provide a platform for community leaders and other stakeholders to deliberate on the recurring fire incidents and explore measures to prevent further occurrences.
