By Anthony Maliki, Abuja
The National Association of Jukun Wanu (NAJUWA) has rejected attempts to implicate the Jukun people in the recurring violence in Benue State, especially in Tiv communities.
“Recent allegations of Jukun complicity in attacks against our Tiv neighbors are baseless and inflammatory. We urge restraint in public discourse and on social media”, NAJUWA warned.
The association made the remarks in a statement signed by its President-General, Engineer Moses Amankye Adanwo and Secretary-General, Comrade Sule Musa Atase.
The statement is tagged “NAJUWA condemns Benue killings, urged unity against violence, and rejects continued unfounded allegations against the Jukun people”.
NAJUWA gave an instance of the misleading claims circulated on April 28th and 29th, 2025, in posts by Orkuma Benjamin and Aomoty Content, respectively, have only served to fuel division and demand for retraction and public apology.
It pointed out that a recent investigation conducted by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Guma Local Government Area, alongside other security agencies, has confirmed NAJUWA position and non-involvement in the Yelwata incident.
The Association noted that in fact, members of the Jukun community in Abinsi in Guma Local Government Area are currently providing shelter to some displaced Tiv victims of the violence.
The statement noted that NAJUWA extends its profound condolences to the Government and people of Benue State over the ongoing violence, particularly the tragic killings in Agatu and Idoma communities, as well as the recent incident in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area.
“We stand in solidarity with all victims and their families, and we call for urgent, collective action to end the bloodshed in our communities,” it reiterated.
NAJUWA stressed that it unequivocally condemns all forms of violence, which run contrary to its values as peace-loving people.
The Association shared in the grief of the Idoma, Agatu, and Tiv people and proposed some concrete steps toward reconciliation and peace.
It supports President Bola Tinubu’s call urging Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, to include Jukun representatives in the proposed stakeholder committee to ensure inclusive governance.
The Association also proposed collaboration with security forces and reaffirm its commitment to assist lawful investigations into all incidents of violence.
It suggested that a bilingual Tiv/English spokesperson be appointed among the Jukun to help correct misinformation and foster inter-ethnic understanding.
The statement reaffirmed NAJUWA’s dedicated to peace, justice, and the constitutional rights of all Nigerians and urged media outlets to verify claims before publishing incendiary narratives.
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