Just Married, Now Buried: Benue Community Mourns Brutal Killing of Two Young Men

What was meant to be the beginning of a beautiful new chapter has turned into unimaginable tragedy. Jonathan Uko Ogah, a newlywed, and his close friend, Gabriel Ogoda, were reportedly ambushed and killed by armed men in the early hours of Monday, August 4, 2025, along the Oju Awarji road in Gwer East LGA of Benue State.

Jonathan had just tied the knot two days earlier. Gabriel, still struggling to provide for his family, was said to be working hard to make ends meet. Their deaths have left the Igede community shattered. Friends, like Drlaff Ijuo Albert, described them as hardworking, peaceful, and full of life.

There are now growing calls for justice and better security, as the community pleads with local and state leaders to act swiftly. Many are warning others to avoid the route for now — a grim reminder of just how unsafe it has become.