The Tiv Community in Nasarawa State, under the Tiv Development Association (TIDA), has condemned the violent clash between some Tiv people from Benue State and the Alago people of Keana Local Government Area. This clash led to the loss of lives and property.
Comrade Simeon Apusu, President of TIDA, made the condemnation while speaking to newsmen after an emergency State Executive Council Meeting in Lafia on Tuesday. He also condemned the killing of innocent Tiv farmers in Keana and the destruction of their property by armed men.
Apusu expressed regret that the violence has displaced hundreds of Tiv farmers in Keana, Obosidoma, and nearby Tiv villages. He stressed that violence is counterproductive and urged dialogue as the best means of resolving conflicts.
The TIDA President commended the state government for deploying security operatives to prevent further violence. He called for more security in Keana and surrounding Tiv villages to allow displaced persons to return home.
Apusu also urged the state and Federal Government to expedite the ongoing boundary demarcation process between Nasarawa and Benue states to provide a permanent solution to the land disputes in the border areas.
He called on the Tiv people, especially the youth, not to take the law into their own hands. He assured that TIDA is working with the state government and other stakeholders to restore permanent peace.
Apusu expressed condolences to the families of the victims, the Osana of Keana, and the people of Keana Local Government. He prayed for the repose of the souls of those killed and quick healing for the injured.
The revised text is 235 words.
