The Tor Tiv, James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, has strongly refuted claims that the ongoing crisis in Benue State is merely a farmers-herders conflict or communal clash, describing it instead as "a calculated, well planned, full genocidal land grabbing campaign by herder terrorism and bandits."
The paramount ruler made these remarks during a stakeholders meeting in Makurdi on Wednesday while addressing President Bola Tinubu, who visited the state following recent attacks in Yelewata, Guma Local Government Area, which claimed over 200 lives.
Misconceptions About the Crisis
"We do have misconception about the misrepresentation and misconception about the crisis in Benue State. It is not herders-farmers crisis, it's not communal clashes or reprisal attacks," the Tor Tiv stated.
He further explained that such misinformation has led to inappropriate suggestions like "remain tolerant, negotiate for peace, learn to leave with your neighbours," which he believes fail to address the true nature of the problem.
According to the monarch, the violence in Benue has been ongoing for decades and is worsening, representing a systematic attempt at land grabbing rather than typical community conflicts.
Presidential Visit
President Tinubu's visit to Makurdi comes at a critical time as the state grapples with escalating violence. During his stay, the President also visited injured victims at the Teaching Hospital.
The Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, reportedly urged the President to consider state policing as a solution to ending the killings in the region.
This stakeholders meeting represents a significant moment in addressing the security challenges facing Benue State, as local leaders seek federal intervention to halt what they describe as targeted violence against communities.
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has also weighed in on the situation, calling on the federal government to declare a state of emergency in response to the crisis.
Follow BenriNews for more updates on this developing story:
