A socio-cultural organization in Nasarawa State, the Alago Ikweyi Gbayi Development Union (AIGDU), has urged President Bola Tinubu to direct the National Boundary Commission to conduct an immediate physical demarcation of the boundary between Nasarawa and Benue states.
The group believes this action would help prevent recurring attacks by gunmen that have claimed numerous lives, including women and children, in border communities.
This appeal was made in a statement jointly signed by AIGDU President Mohammed Oshafu and Publicity Secretary Hassan Ozegya on Sunday in Lafia, the Nasarawa State capital.
Dispute Over Yelwata's Origin
The statement comes in response to recent claims by the Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse, during President Tinubu's visit to Benue State. The traditional ruler had alleged that Tiv people in Nasarawa were being oppressed and their lands seized, particularly in border communities like Yelwata.
AIGDU strongly refuted these claims, describing them as misleading. "Yelwata is historically an Alago village comprising Alago and Gwandara tribes," the statement emphasized. "The Tiv later joined them in the community. Apart from colonial and other modern-day records, even Google Maps confirms that Yelwata is in Nasarawa State."
The group maintained that communities in Keana, Obi, and Awe local government areas, which are predominantly Alago, have historically enjoyed peaceful coexistence among all residents, including the Tiv people.
Indigenous Land Ownership Claims
While stating that they do not support conflict or bloodshed, AIGDU firmly disputed claims suggesting that the Tiv have ancestral ownership over land in those local government areas.
"The Tiv people do not have ancestral lands in Keana, Obi, and Awe LGAs. The Alago people are the indigenous owners and founders of those areas," the statement noted.
The group also distanced itself from the causes of the recent violence in Yelwata, stating they were not aware of any skirmishes that led to the deadly attacks.
Call for Lasting Peace
While commiserating with families affected by the violence, AIGDU commended President Tinubu for his swift intervention and condolence visit to the affected communities.
"Our appeal for the clear demarcation of the Nasarawa-Benue border is to help avoid further crisis, define administrative roles, and promote lasting peace and security in the region," the statement added.
The border dispute between Nasarawa and Benue states has been a recurring issue, often resulting in violent clashes between communities along the boundary areas.
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