Despite government efforts to maintain peace among the several tribes that habit the state, over 10 people have been reportedly killed and hundreds of houses burnt down during a renewed crisis between Tiv and Jukun in Vaasa Community of Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.
Special Adviser to the Governor on Security, Col. Paul Hemba (rtd), disclosed this while speaking to newsmen in Makurdi.
This is happening barely two months after Benue State Governor Samuel Ortom inaugurated a commission of inquiry to forge lasting peace between the two tribes.
Both tribes had clashed in Abinsi, a community few kilometres from Makurdi, the state capital earlier in the year.
Col. Hemba said thousands of people have already been displaced and are currently taking refuge in Jootar, a village in Ukum while security agencies are on the watch in the area.
Hemba who disclosed that peace talks is currently on going between the governments of Benue and Taraba state on how to maintain peace wondered what could have led to the crisis.
According to him, “Efforts have been made by the state government to stop the crisis which started from Kente, a border town between Benue and Taraba.
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“I have travelled to the area three times in the week and I held meetings with the Aku Uka of Wukari and the Special Adviser to Governor Darius Ishaku on Security, which also had in attendance the Tor Sankera, from Benue axis, Chief Abu Shuluwa.”
Hemba said the meeting resolved that there should be cessation of hostilities to pave way for peace. “But, it is so sad to note that after the meeting, killings are still going on.
“I received a report that rampaging Jukun youths invaded Vaase and vandalized a lot of property, killing people. Maybe the resolutions have not been properly communicated to them.”
Col. Hemba said he also met with the Tiv youths and told them not to take the law into their hands.
According to him, the police have already deployed security to the place and normalcy has been restored in Kente community.
He appealed to both Tiv and Jukun youths to sheath their swords and embrace peace in the interest and safety of all citizens.
