- Renunciation of Banditry: Dreaded militia leaders and members in the Sankera axis of Benue state have renounced banditry through the initiative of Bishop Isaac Dugu.
- Apex Tiv Group’s Commendation: The group commends the repentant bandits, Bishop Dugu, and the state government for promoting peace.
- Ongoing Challenges: Persistent attacks by armed herdsmen in Sankera communities remain a concern.
- Call to Action: Federal and state governments urged to take decisive action against perpetrators.
In a significant development, some militia leaders and their members in Benue state’s Sankera axis have renounced banditry, thanks to the efforts of Bishop Isaac Dugu of the Catholic Diocese of Katsina-Ala. This move has been welcomed by the apex Tiv group, who praised the repentant bandits, Bishop Dugu, and the state government for their commitment to peace.
The Tiv group, in a statement signed by Chief Iorbee Ihagh and Luther Iorbee, expressed appreciation for the bishop’s initiative and the bandits’ decision to lay down their arms. However, they also highlighted the ongoing attacks by armed herdsmen in Sankera communities, which remain a major concern.
The group emphasized that if this trend is not reversed, efforts to achieve peace and harmonious co-existence in the state may be undermined. They called on the Tiv Area Traditional Council to collaborate with security agencies and the state government to ensure enduring peace in Sankera and Benue state.
This development is a crucial step towards restoring peace in the region, which has been plagued by violence and economic instability. The involvement of community leaders and religious figures like Bishop Dugu is essential in promoting dialogue and reconciliation.
