By Amos Aar
THE MANAGING Director of Benue Investment and Property Company (BIPC) Limited, Dr Raymond Asemakaha, last Saturday, June 21, 2025, laid his late father, Mr. James Asemakaha Antor, to rest amidst extravagant display that has stirred public criticism.
Dr Asemakaha hails from Mbashagba, Mbaduku in Vandeikya LGA, the same hometown as Governor Alia.
The lavish funeral drew widespread attention for its opulence featuring gold-plated casket, a matching grave design, and a gold-coloured motorcade used to convey the remains.
The display has sparked public outrage, with many social media commentators questioning the appropriateness of such luxury by a government appointee at a time when widespread insecurity and economic hardship continue to plague the state.
“This is financial illiteracy. Our leaders should channel resources into productive ventures that uplift communities rather than spend excessively on ceremonies. This sets a poor example. It’s unfortunate that our people prefer to bury wealth than help others,” commented a critic on Facebook.
Critics argue that the show of wealth contrasts with the realities faced by many Benue residents grappling with extreme poverty, displacement, and hunger.
The burial has since become a talking point on social media with calls for more modesty and sensitivity from public officials.
A video clip posted on Facebook featured the BIPC MD claiming that friends donated N73 million, 38 cows and wine for the burial.
