Published On August 14, 2024 In Benue, Nigeria
By Inyima Nicholas Sunday, A Writer | Website: INTERNETISGOOD
The Benue State government has committed to addressing the concerns of Igede youth and other groups who have threatened to protest against alleged ongoing unprovoked attacks by the Bonta Militia on Ukpute. The government urged the youths to avoid violence and assured them that their demands would be promptly addressed.
This commitment was made on Monday in Makurdi by Hon. Moses Mkeenena, the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Mobilisation and Empowerment. The government acknowledged the concerns of the groups and emphasized the need for both the Ukpute and Bonta communities to support Governor Hyacinth Alia’s peace initiatives, especially in light of external attacks by Fulani herdsmen on the state.
The government also stated that it was not ignoring the renewed hostilities between Ukpute and Bonta, despite its ongoing peace efforts, and was working towards a peaceful resolution.
During a meeting organized by the state government, the Igede groups, led by Comrade Andyson Iji Egbodo, National President of the Igede Youth Council, demanded an immediate redemarcation of the disputed boundary between Bonta and Ukpute or the declaration of the area as a buffer zone to stop the renewed killings of Ukpute people by Bonta militias.
The groups presented a seven-page document titled “Protest Address to His Excellency, Rev Fr. Hyacinth Alia, the Executive Governor, Benue State, over the Incessant Attacks on Ukpute and Other Igede Communities by Bonta (Tiv) Militias, Presented at Makurdi This 12th Day of August 2024,” to the government.
The Igede delegation expressed concerns that the government’s handling of the crisis was unfair and had not adequately addressed the plight of the Ukpute people, in contrast to how it dealt with the recent crisis in Ukum.
At the meeting, which was attended by over 14 delegates representing various groups and associations, the Igede representatives rejected a transport fare offered by the government and refused to hold a joint meeting with Bonta delegates.
Comrade Egbodo praised the governor’s efforts in combating external attacks and previous attempts to demarcate the boundary between Bonta and Ukpute, but urged him to intensify his efforts to restore peace to the area immediately. He warned that nothing would prevent his group from going ahead with the planned protest and world press conference to bring global attention to the plight of the Ukpute people.
Possible Consequences And Advice Against tThe he Attacks:
The ongoing attacks by the Bonta Militia on Ukpute could have several serious consequences for the affected communities, the broader region, and the state as a whole. Understanding these potential outcomes is crucial in evaluating the importance of addressing the conflict promptly and peacefully.
Possible Consequences:
- Escalation of Violence: Continuous attacks could lead to a cycle of retaliation, resulting in an escalation of violence between the Ukpute and Bonta communities. This could potentially spread to neighboring areas, destabilizing the region further.
- Humanitarian Crisis: Prolonged violence could displace a significant number of people, leading to a humanitarian crisis. Displaced individuals may face inadequate access to food, shelter, medical care, and other essential services, exacerbating their suffering.
- Economic Disruption: The conflict could disrupt local economies, especially in rural areas where agriculture is the primary livelihood. Destruction of property, loss of livestock, and inability to farm due to insecurity could lead to food shortages and increased poverty.
- Social Fragmentation: Continuous conflict fosters deep-seated animosities between communities, eroding social cohesion. This could make future reconciliation efforts more challenging and create long-lasting divisions among the people.
- Political Instability: Persistent violence undermines the authority of the state government, potentially leading to political instability. It can create a perception of weakness or ineffectiveness in governance, which could embolden other groups to resort to violence to achieve their goals.
- Intervention by External Forces: If the conflict worsens, it may attract the attention of external actors, such as militias or even neighboring states, who might intervene either to support one side or to exploit the situation for their gain. This could further complicate the situation and lead to a broader conflict.
Advice Against the Attacks:
- Prioritize Dialogue Over Violence: Both communities should be encouraged to engage in constructive dialogue facilitated by neutral mediators. Open communication is essential to understanding each other’s grievances and working towards mutually acceptable solutions.
- Support Peace Initiatives: All parties involved should support Governor Hyacinth Alia’s peace efforts and any other initiatives aimed at restoring calm to the region. By embracing these efforts, the communities can work together to build a sustainable peace.
- Engage Community Leaders: Traditional and community leaders should play an active role in mediating between the conflicting groups. Their influence and respect within the communities make them vital in promoting peace and discouraging violence.
- Seek Legal and Political Solutions: Disputes over land or boundaries should be resolved through legal channels and political negotiations, rather than violence. The government should expedite efforts to demarcate disputed boundaries clearly or consider creating a buffer zone as proposed by the Igede groups.
- Address Underlying Issues: The government and community leaders should work together to address the underlying causes of the conflict, such as poverty, lack of access to resources, and historical grievances. Addressing these root causes can help prevent future conflicts.
- Educate on the Consequences of Violence: Awareness campaigns highlighting the destructive consequences of violence on both communities can help dissuade individuals from participating in or supporting attacks. Promoting the benefits of peace and coexistence should be a priority.
- Strengthen Security and Protection: The government should enhance security measures in the affected areas to protect vulnerable populations and deter further attacks. This could include deploying security forces to maintain order and prevent further violence.
By taking these steps, the communities involved can avoid the devastating consequences of ongoing attacks and work towards a peaceful, stable future.
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