Tension continues to brew along the Benue-Nasarawa axis as a prominent socio-cultural organisation in Nasarawa State, the Alago Ikweyi Gbayi Development Union (AIGDU), has called on President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to immediately direct the National Boundary Commission to embark on a comprehensive physical delineation of the boundary between the two states. The group believes that a proper demarcation exercise will go a long way in addressing the recurring violence that has plagued communities near the border, leading to loss of lives and displacement of residents.
In a press statement jointly signed by the President of the Union, Mohammed Oshafu, and the Publicity Secretary, Hassan Ozegya, and made available to the press in Lafia on Sunday, the group expressed concern over what it described as “misleading and unfounded claims” made by the Tor Tiv, His Royal Majesty, Professor James Ayatse, during President Tinubu’s recent visit to Benue State. The monarch had alleged that Tiv people residing in border communities within Nasarawa State were being marginalised and labelled as non-indigenes, with their ancestral lands reportedly being seized.
However, AIGDU firmly disputed these claims, stating that they do not reflect the reality on the ground, particularly in Keana, Obi, and Awe Local Government Areas of Nasarawa State, where the Alago people, along with other ethnic groups, have historically coexisted peacefully with all settlers, including Tiv residents. The group insisted that there has never been any form of systemic oppression or land encroachment against the Tiv people in these areas.
The group pointed out that Yelwata, one of the communities most affected by the recent spate of attacks, is historically and administratively a part of Keana Local Government in Nasarawa State. According to them, the village was originally founded by the Alago and Gwandara ethnic groups long before Tiv settlers arrived. They further referenced colonial-era records and modern mapping technologies, including Google Maps, which all indicate that Yelwata lies within Nasarawa State’s jurisdiction.
While distancing itself from the recent violent incidents and refusing to assign blame for the tragic killings, the group condemned the bloodshed and extended condolences to the bereaved families. AIGDU maintained that it does not support conflict of any kind and remains committed to peaceful coexistence among all Nigerians, irrespective of ethnicity or state of origin.
“We want to make it clear that our position is not to support any form of crisis. Nasarawa State, especially the communities in question, have a long-standing reputation for accommodating people from across Nigeria and even foreigners. The recent violence in Yelwata is unfortunate, and we are deeply saddened by the needless loss of lives,” the statement read in part.
The union reiterated that the Tiv people do not possess ancestral land rights in Keana, Obi, or Awe LGAs, insisting that the original landowners remain the Alago people, who founded these communities generations ago. Despite this, the group emphasised the need for peace and understanding, while cautioning against narratives that could fuel further tensions between the neighbouring states.
Commending President Tinubu for his prompt visit to the affected communities and his expression of concern over the killings, AIGDU expressed confidence in his administration’s capacity to ensure justice and lasting peace. The group urged the Federal Government to act swiftly to clarify territorial boundaries and put an end to the overlapping claims that have long fueled mistrust and unrest.
“Our appeal to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu is to ensure a clear and undisputable demarcation between Nasarawa and Benue States. This will help both governments and communities to know where their respective responsibilities and rights begin and end. It is the only way to prevent future conflict and restore lasting peace to the border communities,” the statement concluded.
The ongoing dispute between the Tiv community in Benue and the Alago people in Nasarawa has been a source of concern for years, often resulting in deadly clashes and displacement. Observers believe that the federal government’s intervention through a formal boundary resolution could be the turning point in achieving stability and peace in the volatile region.