Kwande Tragedy: Benue King Wants Troops Out

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 killing of mourners in Jato-Aka.

Ter Kwande visited Jato-Aka in Turan on October 1, a day after attending the burial of the late Ortar Zaki Hanave Laha. Reports indicate that several students and other mourners were shot while returning from the deceased’s residence in Nzaav.

During the visit, Ter Kwande, alongside the Vice Chairman of Kwande LGA, Hon. Mrs. Rita Sundah Iortsor, and Comr. Aloko Nachi, National President of the Kwande United People Organization (KWUPO), condemned the killings, describing them as “unprofessional and brutal.”

“I have reported this ugly development to both Tor Tiv and Tor Kwande,” Ter Kwande said, insisting that the military presence be replaced with police forces. “The Nigerian Army, who have turned against us over the years, must leave.”

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Comr. Nachi pledged that KWUPO would seek justice for the victims, including through legal action, and would support the wounded receiving treatment in hospitals. He also revealed that Governor Hyacinth Alia has promised to visit Turan in response to the crisis.

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Hon. Mrs. Iortsor urged residents to remain calm while leaders pursue redress, calling the soldiers’ actions “brutal and unjust.” She assured that troops stationed in Jato-Aka would be withdrawn, appealing for peace and order as security and legal processes unfold.