Tragedy has struck the family of the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, following the sudden death of his sister-in-law, Mrs Joy Aondohemba Alia, who collapsed during a church service on Sunday, July 26, 2026.
The deceased was the wife of Mr Isaac Aondohemba Alia, the younger brother of the Benue State Governor.
Rushed to teaching hospital
Eyewitness accounts shared by congregants indicate that Mrs Alia unexpectedly slumped mid-service, initially leaving worshippers in shock.
A fellow congregant, Akpen Denen, who assisted in rushing her to the Benue State University Teaching Hospital in Makurdi, recounted the devastating moments leading up to her death in a poignant social media tribute.
“I am astonished and still grappling with the events that transpired during today’s church service. You suddenly fell, and initially, I thought it might have been due to the anointing,” Denen stated. “Upon rushing you to the teaching hospital for medical attention, the doctor informed me of the devastating news that you didn’t survive.”
Tributes pour in for the Alia family
News of her sudden demise has sent shockwaves across Benue State, with family members, political associates, and well-wishers taking to social media platforms to express grief and offer condolences to Mr Isaac Alia and the Governor.
“Who am I to question the divine will? Our dear wife, Joy Aondohemba Alia, may your soul rest in peace,” Denen added in his tribute.
As of the time of filing this report, neither the Benue State Government nor the executive office of Governor Hyacinth Alia has issued an official statement regarding funeral arrangements or the medical cause behind her sudden collapse.
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