Tragedy struck on Sunday as a renewed clash between Yache-Ijiegu community in Yala Local Government Area of Cross River State and Tiv settlers from Benue State resulted in the deaths of at least 20 people. The clash, which arose from lingering boundary disputes, has left a trail of destruction and untold suffering.
While the exact number of casualties is yet to be determined, it is believed that women and children are among those who have lost their lives in the conflict. Additionally, several individuals have sustained serious gunshot and machete wounds.
Reports indicate that both sides have engaged in the burning of houses, exacerbating an already tense situation.
The hostilities reignited on Thursday when a Yache-Ijiegu community member, Ayeku Godwin Ochuole, was allegedly attacked and killed by Tiv assailants while working on his farm. This incident also resulted in the abduction of nine others who suffered gunshot wounds. The violence stemmed from a dispute over the payment of royalties by the Tiv settlers for their use of Yache lands.
Tiv leaders claim that they have been subjected to extortion by the Yache natives and argue that they have a longstanding historical connection to the land, having resided there for over a century. They maintain that they are indigenes of Cross River State, not Benue State, and have acquiesced to paying royalties for land and property.
According to Mr Jacob Uswa, a Tiv leader, the Yache boys have launched surprise attacks, hiding in the bushes and killing their own people. He asserts that they cannot continue to allow the extermination of their community and that they have a right to defend themselves.
While the government has made efforts to intervene and the military has a presence in the area, the clashes have persisted, resulting in loss of lives and an atmosphere of insecurity. Youth leader Augustine Odey blames the governments of both states for their inaction in resolving the crisis. He also alleges that armed soldiers have been complicit in the violence, moving with the Tiv settlers.
Lieutenant Alex and Lieutenant H. J. Enoibor, commanders of the security team, explain that they have attempted to restore peace but that the Yache boys continue to engage in attacks. Despite their efforts, an indigene of Ijiegu-Yache was killed in the most recent clash.
A joint peace meeting involving all stakeholders is scheduled for Wednesday, in the hopes of finding a lasting and peaceful resolution to the conflict.
