The Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse, has issued a two-day ultimatum to traditional rulers in Konshisha and Gwer East Local Government Areas of Benue State to take action against militias and hired killers involved in the ongoing Ugambe-Mbaiase crisis. Speaking from his palace in Gboko, Ayatse warned village heads against harboring armed mercenaries, stating that such protection exacerbates the violence and deepens insecurity.

According to community leaders, the conflict stems from long-standing land disputes between the Ugambe and Mbaiase communities. The Tor Tiv emphasized the need for a return to the traditional Tiv values of peaceful coexistence and directed the Mue Ter of Shangev Tiev and Masev districts to ensure the immediate expulsion of all armed groups from the area.

Ayatse also appealed to the Benue State Government to expedite the demarcation of the boundary between Ugambe and Mbaiase, citing this as a crucial step towards achieving permanent peace in the region. The local government chairmen and traditional chiefs present at the meeting expressed their support for the Tor Tiv’s intervention and pledged to enforce his directive to bring an end to the crisis.

The Ugambe-Mbaiase crisis has been a source of concern for the Benue State Government and the Tiv people, with reports of violence and instability in the area. The Tor Tiv’s intervention is seen as a significant step towards resolving the conflict and restoring peace to the region. The next steps will depend on the ability of the traditional rulers and the state government to implement the directives and work towards a lasting solution.

The Tor Tiv’s call for a return to traditional values of peaceful coexistence is a reminder of the importance of community-led initiatives in resolving conflicts. The involvement of local leaders and the state government will be crucial in addressing the underlying causes of the conflict and finding a sustainable solution. As the situation develops, it is expected that the Benue State Government will take concrete steps to support the efforts of the Tor Tiv and the traditional rulers in bringing peace to the area.