The Recent Violent Assault On The Residents Of Jato-Aka By Certain Members Of The Nigerian Army Is Completely Unacceptable And Wrong

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?Reports indicate that soldiers assigned to a mining company in Tarkom opened fire on innocent individuals returning from the burial of the late Zaki Hanave along the Jato-Aka – Kashimbila road yesterday.

This attack resulted in the deaths of two primary school students and one Iorasuu of Ugbe, with two others suffering critical injuries, while eight Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) were hit by stray bullets. The fate of the Tyoor of Yaav, who was taken away in a military vehicle, remains unknown.

It is deeply troubling that the soldiers acted in this manner after refusing to escort the family to bury their father at his home, which has been overtaken by armed Fulani herdsmen. Their refusal instilled fear in the family, yet the local youths took it upon themselves to transport the remains to their village for burial, only to be ambushed by the soldiers.

This behavior by the soldiers is intolerable and should be condemned by everyone, as it not only violates human rights but also represents a deliberate effort to inflict further suffering on the people of Kwande and escalate bloodshed.

I stand with other sons and daughters of Kwande in urging the Federal Government and the Benue State Government to promptly investigate the brutality exhibited by the Nigerian Army and hold accountable those soldiers responsible for this atrocious act, ensuring they face the full consequences of the law.

Additionally, I extend my sincere condolences to the families who lost loved ones due to the brutality of the Nigerian Army and wish a swift recovery to all those injured.