From Msughshima Andrew, Makurdi
The Benue State government has ordered immediate cessation of hostilities between the two warring communities of Shitile/Ikyurav Tiev in Katsina-Ala Local Government Area of the state.
State Governor Samuel Ortom gave the order on Thursday while speaking to journalists shortly after an emergency security meeting with the traditional Chiefs and other key stakeholders held at the people’s House in Makurdi.
The governor ordered security agents to arrest anyone culpable in the last attacks on Katsina-Ala even as he assured that the state government will continue to engage stakeholders in the area and the traditional institution towards find lasting solution to the clashes.
Ortom said having returned from leave, it was only proper to put heads together and identify the root causes of the crisis before proceeding to the spots.
He assured that he will visit all the affected areas to ascertain the level of damages.
The meeting which lasted for over five hour discussed issues surrounding the insecurity in Sankera and other part Tivland.
Also speaking, the Tor Tiv, Professor James Ayatse said Benue has hadย issues some of which bothers on criminalities.
He stated that the traditional institution have met and condemned it. “We have also met with stakeholders and have issued directives that all these hilostilies should seize.
“We are working together with government and we will ensure that these hostilities and criminalities are brought to an end.
“The traditional institution has spoken and the political authorities have also affirmed. I think we are on the same page and there is no hiding place,” the Tor Tiv said..
