Death toll rises as communal clashes continue in Benue, Taraba
- The clashes between Jukun and Tiv communities in Benue state have reportedly continued unabated
- Not fewer than 15 dead bodies were reportedly recovered at Vaase settlement in Ukum LGA as a result of the clashes
- The state government confirmed the latest clash, adding that over 3,000 people have been displaced since the crisis broke out last week
No fewer than 15 dead bodies were reportedly recovered on Thursday, April 11, at Vaase settlement in Ukum local government area of Benue state as communal clashes between Jukun and Tiv communities in the state and Taraba continue.
According to The Guardian, the dead bodies were recovered following the razing of over 100 houses in the clashes in both sides of the divide.
Legit.ng gathers that the ugly incident was confirmed by the special adviser to Governor Samuel Ortom on security, Col. Paul Hemba (rtd.).
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Hemba reportedly said over 3,000 people have been displaced since the crisis broke out last week and are presently camped at Jootar in Ukum Council.
Meanwhile, the Tiv Youth Organisation has reportedly berated President Muhamadu Buhari over comments credited to him on why Benue state governor, Samuel Ortom, left the All Progressives Congress (APC) to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Buhari was allegedly quoted to have told members of Nigerian community in Dubai that Ortom left APC due to unresolved issues concerning open grazing of cattle in Benue state.
In a statement by its president general, Timothy Hembaor, the group faulted the president’s comment.
“It was a confirmation of Buhari’s anti-Benue posture and confirms Ortom’s lack of confidence in federal authorities to protect his people," the group said.
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Legit.ng earlier reported that thousands of Tivs refugees affected by the ongoing communal clashes between Tivs and Jukuns in Wukari local government area of Taraba state crossed to Benue state for safety.
Tivs in their hundreds including women and children fled Wukari area into Benue state.
It was gathered that armed Jukun militia invaded Tivs villages along Wukari/Kente/Kwatan Sule road and looted valuables as well as farm produce.
A source in the area who spoke on the condition of anonymity said several Tivs villages were burnt down and occupants chased away.
He, however, said Tivs traditional rulers from Benue state and members of Wukari traditional council and other security agents had met in Wukari to find a solution to the conflict.
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Source: Legit.ng
