The paramount ruler of the nation, Orcivirigh Prof James Ayatse has expressed anger over the unabated killings of innocent lives and destruction of property worth billions of naira in Moon, Anyiase, Abande and Anwase communities of Kwande Local Government Area (LGA) and other parts of Tiv land in Benue state.

The Tor Tiv, who spoke in a statement signed by his Special Assistant on Media and ICT, Freddie Adamgbe, condemned the attacks in strong terms describing it as an assault on the very fabric of Tiv people’s shared life.

Recall that suspected herdsmen had carried out a violent attack on a market in Abande Community, on Tuesday, 3rd February, 2026, killing 17 persons.

He however encouraged the Tiv nation not to despair saying “We stand united in outrage and grief against this barbaric acts of terrorism that have shattered the peace of our communities.

“These heinous killings are not just attacks on individuals; they are an assault on our collective humanity, our safety, and the very fabric of our shared life. We will not be silenced by fear, nor will we allow these cowardly acts to define us.

“We demand justice for the innocent lives lost and an end to this terror. Our communities deserve to live free from violence, and we will continue to raise our voices until peace and security are restored for every single one of us.”

The Tor Tiv, while cautioning his subjects never to embark on any form of retaliation, which may add to their calamity, also urged them to continue to place their hope in the unfailing powerful hand of the almighty God who is the only One who can finally put to rest the genocide.

He made a passionate plea on the State and Federal Governments to deploy special security personnel, air and ground, immediately to confront the menace and safeguard the lives of the victims in the affected communities who deserve to live free from violence. (The Sun)