By Amos Tauna
A socio-cultural group from Benue State North Central Nigeria, Mdzough U Tiv has lauded Benue State House of Assembly, traditional rulers, national Exco of Mdzough U Tiv and Governor of the state, Samuel Orton for working and signing the anti open grazing bill into law.
The group believes that those opposed to the world best practice, are enemies of Benue people.
A communique issued at the end of its national meeting by Shimakyaa lorkyase and Engr. Williams Takpugh, acting chairman and secretary respectively said, “Mdzough U Tiv Chapter Presidents Worldwide noted and appreciated the Benue State House of Assembly, the Traditional Rulers, the national Exco of Mdzough U Tiv worldwide and His Excellency,the Governor of Benue State for working on the bill and signing it into law.
“It is therefore our firm believe that those oppose to this world best practice are enemies of Benue People. It is our considered position that this law will restore peace to Benue land thereby increasing food and livestock production in most decent manner.”
Mdzough U Tiv condemned in a very strongest terms and ramifications the deliberate onslaught on peaceful and defenceless Nigerians, the Benue indigenes by Fulani herdsmen.
The communique explained, “MUT chapter Presidents Worldwide condemned in a very strongest terms and ramifications the deliberate onslaught on peaceful and defenceless Nigerians especially Benue indigene by Fulani herdsmen.
“We call on the Federal government of Nigeria and the international community to assist in ensuring the end to these barbaric, heinous and unprovoked killings. We also demand that the sponsors and perpetrators be fished out and brought to book.”
The meeting viewed with concern the worrisome trend with which the personnel of the Nigeria police and Department Security Service, DSS, were used particularly to teargas the civil and people of Benue State and subsequent blockade of the Benue State House of Assembly complex.
“This portend danger to democracy and the Tiv peope in particular. This act is unprofessional and it is therefore condemned vehemently,” the meeting lamented.
Mdzough U Tiv commended His Royal Majesty, Orchivirigh Chief Prof. James I. Ayatse, Tor Tiv V for establishing Ayatutu Foundation.
“We are not unaware of the fact that he ascended the throne at the most trying times for Tiv nation. But with God, we shall overcome all hurdles.
“The efficacy of this foundation cannot be overemphasised. We call on all Tiv sons and daughters, all chapters of MDZOUGH U Tiv worldwide as well as friends of Tiv nation to as a matter of deliberate obligation make or be making donations to the foundation,” the meeting observed.
“It is with very deep concern that we observe the worrisome political situation in Benue state in recent times. The issues are dicey. However, we enjoined all actors to shield their swords and put the Tiv nation above personal political interest.
“We strongly advised and warned that no political salt should be added to the already injured Tiv nation.
“We equally implored President-General, Mdzough U Tiv Worldwide, Chief Engr Edward Ujege, all the First class Chiefs and the Paramount Ruler of the Tiv nation to quickly intervene. ‘Ayatutu’ must be ‘Se’ at all times.” the Communique said.
