Benue Monarch Demands Army Withdrawal from Kwande Over Killings of Mourners
The Paramount Ruler of Kwande and Chairman of the Local Government Traditional Council, Chief Engr. Timothy Ahile (Ter Kwande), has called for the immediate withdrawal of Nigerian Army personnel from Kwande Local Government Area following the alleged killing of mourners by soldiers in Jato-Aka, Turan district.
The traditional ruler, visibly distraught, made the demand during a visit to Jato-Aka on October 1, just a day after attending the burial of the late Ortar Zaki Hanave Laha. His visit came amidst widespread reports that several students and mourners were shot dead by military personnel while returning from the deceased’s residence in Nzaav.
Speaking during the visit, Ter Kwande, accompanied by Hon. Mrs. Rita Sundah Iortsor, Vice Chairman of Kwande LGA (representing the Council Chairman), and Comr. Aloko Nachi, National President of the Kwande United People Organization (KWUPO), strongly condemned the incident.
Describing the soldiers’ actions as “unprofessional and brutal,” the monarch said:
“I have informed both Tor Tiv and Tor Kwande about this disturbing development. The Army, which has turned against our people over the years, must leave. They should be replaced by the police, who are better suited to handle civil matters.”
Comrade Aloko Nachi also expressed outrage over the killings, vowing that KWUPO would pursue justice, including legal action against the Army and the individual soldiers involved. He added that the organization would support injured victims who are currently receiving treatment.
Nachi further revealed that Governor Hyacinth Alia had pledged to visit Turan in response to the growing crisis.
In an emotional address, Hon. Iortsor urged residents to remain calm and law-abiding while leaders engage with relevant authorities to seek redress. She assured that steps were being taken to withdraw the military from Jato-Aka, describing the conduct of the soldiers as “unjust and inhumane.”
The local leaders collectively appealed to the people of Kwande to maintain peace and order, promising that justice would be pursued through both legal and governmental channels.
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