Tiv Farmers Call for Release of 394 Bodies of Slain Relatives

A Tiv farmers’ group, the Association of United Farmers of Benue Valley (AUFBV), has called for the release of the bodies of 394 Tiv farmers allegedly killed by a militia group in Keana Local Government Area (LGA) of Nasarawa State. The appeal was made by the group’s president, Denen Utsa, during a visit to the residence of Ter Tyoshin, HRH Daniel Abomtse, in Naka, Gwer West LGA, Benue State.

Timeline of Events

Utsa revealed that the killings occurred between June 2024 and January 2025 and involved internally displaced Tiv farmers who were attacked in their homes. According to reports from security agencies, on June 26, 2024, Tiv farmers were allegedly attacked by the Alago militia, leading to numerous deaths, injuries, and missing persons.

Appeal for Justice

The AUFBV urged Ter Tyoshin to lend his voice to their demand for the release of the corpses and justice for those affected by the attacks.

Monarch’s Response

Chief Abomtse expressed deep sorrow over the plight of the Tiv farmers, describing the situation as “heartbreaking.” He lamented the continuous marginalization and suffering of the Tiv people, stating:

• “Our lives no longer count. Our human existence is no longer measured in terms of livelihood.”

He further highlighted the challenges faced by the Tiv people in their ancestral lands, questioning why newcomers are given preferential treatment over indigenous residents. Chief Abomtse called on the Federal and state governments, as well as prominent Tiv leaders, to address the injustices and end the suffering of the Tiv community within and beyond Benue State.

Call for Equality

The monarch noted the accommodating nature of the Tiv people, who have welcomed non-natives in Benue and even conferred traditional titles upon them. He emphasized the need for fair treatment of the Tiv people in Nasarawa and Taraba States, urging the elimination of bias and discrimination.

• “No one lives forever, and no one is subhuman. We must discard acts that are counterproductive,” he concluded.