Tiv socio-cultural group, AYACASODI condemns herders attack on Anyiin, calls for immediate action

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A Tiv socio-cultural group, Ayatutu Cultural and Social Development Initiative (AYACASODI) Worldwide has condemned in strong terms a recent attack on Anyiin, a major town in Logo Local Government Area of Benue State on the 30th October, killing over 20 residents.

According to the press statement signed by Chief Timothy Baaki, National President,
AYACASODI Worldwide, and made available to Apex News Exclusive, the group is also accusing the military stationed in Anyiin of complicity.

The press statement read as follows;

AYACASODI Worldwide Condemns Heinous Attack on Anyiin and the Military alleged Complicity, Demands Immediate Action.
1st November, 2024.

The Ayatutu Cultural and Social Development Initiative (AYACASODI) Worldwide strongly condemns the brutal attack on the peaceful border town of Anyiin, Logo Local Government Area, Benue State.

Reports indicate that on October 30, 2024, heavily armed militias suspected to be Fulani and Jukun militias launched a midnight collaborated attack on Anyiin community, killing over 20 innocent people, destroying homes and properties worth millions of Naira, and displacing thousands.

The continued premeditated attacks on the Tiv nation by Fulani and Jukun militias are highly unbearable. The Fulani herdsmen in collaboration with Jukun militias has continuously launched brutal attacks on Gbeji, Ayati, Ayilamo, Iorza, Mchia, and other Tiv communities which demand the state and federal governments’ intervention.

AYACASODI Worldwide categorically condemns these cruel assaults on defenseless civilians, violating human rights, social justice, and dignity. Moreso, we sincerely commend the efforts of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), but condemn in totality, the Nigerian Army’s inhumane and indifferent response to the recent attack on Anyiin. As the last line of defense for the common man, it is unacceptable that the military personnel led by SSgt Abdullahi Altine from 72 Bn Makurdi, allegedly stood by idly while innocent lives were lost, some right before their very eyes at the military base. It is reported that Mr. Bobo Tordoo Suswam, a nephew to H.E. Sen. Dr. Barr. Gabriel Suswam, the former Governor of Benue State and immediate past Senator representing Benue North East, was butchered by the invaders at the gate of his house, directly opposite Corpers’ lodge which is the military base. The alleged failure of the military to intervene in such a critical situation raises serious questions about their effectiveness. We urge the relevant authorities to conduct a thorough investigation into this gross dereliction of duty and take swift, decisive action to hold those responsible accountable. The people of Anyiin deserve justice, and it is imperative that measures are taken to prevent such atrocities from happening again in the future.

This unprovoked act of terror has devastated residents and neighboring communities, forcing many to flee their homes and livelihoods in fear. It was alleged that the attackers were in the nearby village of Ugbur, where they were reportedly regrouping for further violence and terror in the region, unfortunately no actions were taken and they again attacked Ayilamo Community, Logo Local Government Area the following night of 31st October 2024, killing and destroying homes; they also destroyed the Nigeria Police Station Ayilamo, documents in the station, and free the inmates, not just that, many people were injured including the Police officer on duty.

AYACASODI Worldwide mourn with the victims’ families and urge Sen. Barr. Emmanuel Udende, the Senator representing Benue North East; H.E. Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Alia, the Executive Governor of Benue State; H.E. Sen. Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the President of Nigeria, and all the heads of security agencies, to take swift and decisive action to:

1. Provide Urgent Humanitarian Assistance: Thousands of displaced individuals are now in desperate need of food, shelter, medical assistance, and trauma support. We call on the government, humanitarian organizations, and citizens to mobilize relief efforts for these vulnerable populations.
2. Ensure Accountability and Justice:
   We demand a thorough investigation into this atrocity to identify and apprehend all perpetrators and collaborators involved in this attack. Justice must be served to honor the victims and to send a clear message that such criminality will not be tolerated.
3. Enhance Security in Affected Regions: .
   AYACASODI urges the deployment of adequate security personnel to protect Anyiin, Ayilamo, neighboring towns, and other affected regions from further assaults. Preventing future attacks is crucial to restoring peace and safeguarding lives.

We remain committed to defending individuals’ rights and promoting a peaceful, dignified, and just society. We call on all Nigerians of good conscience to reject and condemn these senseless violent acts.

While encouraging law-abiding citizenship, we appeal to authorities to act decisively and end the fear and suffering inflicted on innocent lives.

Signed

Chief Timothy Baaki
National President,
AYACASODI Worldwide
07037688624