From Scholastica Hir, Makurdi
The Tor Tiv, Orcivirigh Prof James Ayatse, has called on Tiv people living in Lagos state to support the Engr Theophilus Ukaa, leadership of Mdzough U Tiv Lagos state chapter to enable them achieve their desired goals and aspirations in the state.
He admonished them to embrace peace and unity and operate under one umbrella body of Mdzough U Tiv which is recognized world wide by the Tiv Area Traditional Council under its President General CP Iorbee Ihyagh rtd.
The Tor Tiv who spoke in his palace, in Gboko when the President General of Mdzough u Tiv, CP Iorbee Ihyagh, rtd visited and presented to him the new President of the association, Lagos State Chapter, Engr Theophilus Terhura Ukaa and his officials.
The Tor Tiv stressed that crisis yielded no positive results but rather causes regrets and disappointment instead of development which is in the interest of all.
He maintained that Tiv people strongly believed and practiced the principle of “Ya Na Angbian” meaning “Eat and give to your brother,” which rotates between the two sons of Tiv known as Ichôngo and Ipusu.
He said that practice has sustained the Tiv people over time and encouraged them to keep the tradition going.
He appealed to the opposing side to sheathe their swords and team up with the Engr. Ukaa’s leadership to bring development to them just as he urged Ukaa to apply all peaceful efforts to reconcile and work with them for peace to reign in Lagos.
Earlier, President General of Mdzough U Tiv, CP Iorbee Ihyagh informed the Tor Tiv that the Tiv elders and critical stakeholders in Lagos have united and selected Engr Theophilus Ukaa, as the authentic and legitimate President of Mdzough u Tiv Lagos state Chapter.
He explained that Ukaa is of Ipusu where the next president was to come from and commended the Tor Tiv for standing firm for justice to take it’s cause.
Speaking, the President Mdzough u Tiv, Lagos State chapter, Engr Theophilus Ukaa, briefed the Tor Tiv of his plans for the reconciliation and unity of all Tiv people living in Lagos saying he is determined to unite them to enable them reap the benefit associated with peace and unity.
Engr Ukaa lauded the reign of the Tor Tiv whose reforms have stabilized Tiv nation which was hitherto characterized with land disputes and chieftaincy matters promising to replicate same for the stability of Tiv people living in Lagos state.