Tor Tiv Criticises State, FG Over Persistent Attacks in Benue

By Uche Nnorom, Makurdi

The Tor Tiv and Chairman of the Benue State Traditional Council, Ochivirgh Prof. James Ortese Ayatse, has described efforts by the Benue State and Federal Governments to address persistent attacks in the state as inadequate.

Ayatse made the remarks while receiving Nigerian music artiste, Innocent Idibia, popularly known as 2Baba, at his palace in Gboko, Benue State.

The traditional ruler expressed concern over the continued insecurity and the hardship faced by residents, saying the people had endured attacks, displacement and other forms of violence for more than two decades.

He, however, commended security agencies for their efforts to contain the attacks, but noted that the agencies appeared overwhelmed by the scale of the security challenges.

“The governor is doing his best, the President is also doing his best, but their best is not working; it is not good enough.

“So, the clear position is that the structure we have is being overwhelmed. For me, there is nothing wrong in calling for help instead of keeping quiet and dying on a daily basis,” the Tor Tiv said.

Tor Tiv urges Benue indigenes to support victims

The monarch commended 2Baba for consistently identifying with the people of Benue during periods of insecurity and called on other prominent indigenes of the state to emulate his humanitarian gestures.

He also applauded the artiste for his talent-hunt initiative aimed at identifying and promoting emerging talents, as well as his philanthropic efforts towards supporting vulnerable people.

Ayatse urged 2Baba to use his musical platform to draw global attention to the experiences of victims of violence in Benue.

“Music transcends generations. So, I challenge you to sing about the pain, affliction and torment the Benue people are going through. Bob Marley is no longer alive, but his philosophical songs re-echo today.”

The traditional ruler further expressed concern that the attacks had continued to threaten the lives and livelihoods of communities across the state.

He described the violence as deliberate and systematic, warning that sustained attacks could have serious long-term consequences for affected communities.

“May the land of Benue bless and protect you,” Ayatse told the artiste.

2Baba seeks Tor Tiv’s blessing

Responding, 2Baba commended the Tor Tiv for his efforts in promoting peaceful coexistence and dialogue among communities.

The artiste informed the traditional ruler about his talent-hunt initiative, aimed at discovering and promoting emerging Nigerian talents, and sought the monarch’s blessing and support for the project.