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From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
A non-political organisation known as Mbajir Development Association (MDA), Makurdi Chapter, has condemned in strong terms the recent invasion and attacks of Mbajir District both in Benue and Taraba States by bandits.
The association voiced its condemnation on the attacks in a statement signed by the President and the Secretary of the association, Elder Aondo Sai and Emmanuel Aondover respectively, and made available to newsmen in Makurdi.
Their anger followed continued attacks on Tiv communities at the border between Taraba and Benue in Katsina Ala Local Government Area, which they said has resulted in tragic loss of lives, destruction of properties, and the mass displacement of their people.
Elder Sai said the heinous and barbaric attacks have also forced innocent residents of Mbajir to flee their ancestral homes to seek refuge in nearby communities of Sai, Abako, Peva and other parts of the states.
He noted with pain that while fleeing for safety, their people have been made to live under extremely distressing and inhumane conditions.
The MDA President said “it is particularly alarming that these attacks occurred without any visible security presence to safeguard lives and properties.”
He described the killings as “senseless acts of violence” perpetrated against peaceful and law-abiding citizens, noting that the continuous vulnerability of their communities to such attacks is unacceptable and demands immediate action by the Government.
The Association re-echoed the earlier call by the Catholic Priest of Jalingo and Wukari Dioceses to the Federal, Benue and Taraba state governments and the chairmen of Katsina-Ala, Takum, Donga and Wukari local government areas to, as a matter of urgency, deploy adequate security personnel to Mbajir District to restore peace, prevent further attacks and ensure protection of lives and property in the affected communities.
Sai also appealed to Benue State Emergency Management Agency (SEMA) to provide relief materials and humanitarian assistance to the internally displaced persons currently taking refuge in Sai, Abako, Peva and other parts of the state.
They further called for a thorough investigation to apprehend and prosecute those responsible for the atrocities.
The Association expressed condolences to affected families that lost their loved ones expressing solidarity with displaced families. They urged all stakeholders to act swiftly to prevent further bloodshed and humanitarian crises in Mbajir District in Taraba and Benue states respectively, saying that the safety, dignity, and fundamental rights of the people must be protected.
