Tiv vs Jukun crisis: Ortom breaks silence on fish ponds clash in Benue

Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has condemned the violent clash between the Tiv and Jukun communities in Makurdi riverside over ownership of fish ponds within the area.

Governor Ortom who received briefings from security agents and the Chairman of Makurdi Local Government, Mr. Tony Dyegeh on the matter called on the two communities to cease hostilities without delay.

His message was contained in a statement on Thursday by his Chief Press Secretary, Nathaniel Ikyur.

Scores of people were reportedly inflicted with severe injuries from the violent clash on Wednesday over battle for the ownership of fish ponds in the Wurukun area of Makurdi, the State capital.

The traditional ruler of the community is said to have fled to an unknown destination after his home was set ablaze by the rampaging youths and many houses were also burnt during the clash.

Ortom who was infuriated by the incident directed the security operatives to take control of the area and do all that is needed to arrest the perpetrators of the mayhem.

He said: “the perpetrators of this violent clash that has led to several injuries and properties destroyed must be brought to book. We cannot tolerate a situation where people take laws into their hands.

“No matter the amount of anger in a man’s mind, the resort to violence cannot be a solution. Resort to self-help can only aggravate the situation. There are many legitimate channels to resolve disputes. No one should take the law into his hands”.

The governor warned that the state government will bring the full weight of the law on anybody or community that perpetuates violence and disrupt the peace of the land henceforth.

He also urged the people to be law-abiding just as he assured them that government will continue to create a conducive atmosphere for everyone to carry out his or her legitimate business in the state.