The Shangev-Tiev Assembly (STA) delivered a strong press statement on November 5, 2024, condemning the ongoing violence between the Bonta community of Shangev-Tiev and the Igede community of Ukpute.
The statement comes in response to misleading narratives and statements attributed to the Igede Youth Council and a member of the National Assembly, which STA characterized as falsehoods that have exacerbated tensions in the region.
In their address, STA, a respected socio-cultural group comprising academics, professionals, and community leaders, expressed deep sorrow over the loss of lives and property amidst the conflict.
They called on the public to dismiss the claims made by the Igede Youth Council during their recent press conference, likening their narrative to a manipulative tale designed to gain sympathy while simultaneously perpetuating violence against the Bonta community.
STA alleged that the Ukpute community, supported by certain political figures and military personnel, has repeatedly undermined peace efforts initiated by the Benue State Government and various NGOs.
They accused Ukpute of launching attacks on Bonta while attempting to portray themselves as victims. “This is the chaotic reality of the Bonta-Ukpute conflict,” STA stated, emphasizing the need for a truthful representation of events.
The assembly detailed specific incidents of violence against Tiv students, highlighting that many have fallen victim to attacks, with names listed to underscore the tragedy. They condemned the apathy of the Igede Youth Council regarding these losses and criticized claims that no harm had come to students at the College of Education Oju.
The STA asserted that the Igede community has consistently rejected peaceful dialogue, citing a refusal to attend a critical peace meeting in July 2024. They pointed out that recent attacks coincided with calls for peace, indicating a troubling trend of escalating violence.
Further addressing the allegations made by the Igede Youth Council, STA refuted claims of a Bonta militia hunting Igede individuals, presenting a history of peaceful coexistence between the communities before the current unrest. They stressed that the land in dispute rightfully belongs to the Shangev-Tiev people, countering claims of expansionist agendas from the Igede community.
The assembly urged all stakeholders, including the government and humanitarian organizations, to recognize the humanitarian crisis resulting from the violence. They called for urgent assistance to support displaced families and address food insecurity caused by the ongoing conflict.
In closing, the Shangev-Tiev Assembly reaffirmed their commitment to peace, advocating for a speedy resolution to the crisis and urging government intervention to protect vulnerable communities from further violence.
Signed:
Elder Moses Shaaji, President, STA
Elder Ian Yaakugh, Vice President, STA
Dr. Zack Ver Wade, Secretary, STA
Sir Peter Vande, Chairman, Press Statement Drafting Committee
Barr Samson Blair Luga NP, Legal Advisor, STA
Dr. Bruce Iortile Iormom, Member
Dr. Moses Kamnan, Member