On September 17th, 2024, the Bishop of Katsina-Ala Diocese, Most Revd Isaac Bundepuun Dugu, received a call from a kindred head in Yooyo ward with surprising news—his children, who had been in hiding, were ready to surrender and return to peace.
Tired of their past ways, they sought reconciliation with the community and the government. The Bishop extended an invitation for representation, which I gladly accepted.
The next day, I arrived at Tacha, the headquarters of Yooyo ward, around 1 pm. Although the event was initially set to begin at 5 pm, it commenced earlier at 3:30 pm as key figures, including kindred heads Mr. Terhemen Kuchin and Iorsue Atimga, along with their lieutenants, gathered for the significant moment.
Leading the group of repentant youths was Ushahemba Terzungwe Ubena, also known as "Lighter." In an emotional address, their spokesman recounted the turmoil that led them astray.
They explained how the death of their leader without any intervention or concern from their people pushed them into violence. They also accused locals of hiring mercenaries to eliminate them, which fueled their retaliatory actions.
In a poignant moment, the young men fell to their knees, pleading for forgiveness. "We are tired, and we want to rest. Our people too are tired," they declared. Their heartfelt appeal was met with thunderous applause and ululation from the large crowd that had gathered.
In response, the two kindred heads expressed gratitude, likening the youths' return to that of the prodigal son. They encouraged them to turn over a new leaf and work toward a better society.
The Deanery Laity Chairman, who accompanied me, echoed these sentiments, urging the young men to become protectors of their land rather than its destroyers.
Yooyo ward, a vast region in Benue State known for its fertile land and aquatic beauty, has faced immense challenges, including the absence of Secondary and functional Primary Schools, especially after the recent crisis.
As part of the region's rehabilitation, I encourage the government to prioritize the establishment of schools to ensure that the youth can access quality education.
In a scene that contrasts sharply with recent hardship, the atmosphere in Tacha has transformed into one of joy.
The town has been alive with continuous classical music for the past four days, and happiness is visible on the faces of the people.
Businesses are thriving—women, bikers, and beverage vendors are enjoying a surge in sales. Even the liquor and canone boys are sharing in the renewed vibrancy of the town, which had resembled a ghost town just days before.
The once-estranged youths left one final message for the Bishop and the Governor: "We shall not go back to our old ways of life." It is our hope and prayer that peace will now reign in Yooyo ward, ushering in a new era of unity and prosperity.
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