Tiv communities in Nasarawa State are protesting the alleged forcible acquisition of 10,000 hectares of their ancestral land by the state government. They describe this development as a violation of their fundamental rights and a threat to their security and socioeconomic well-being.
The communities have appealed for intervention from the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, the Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission, the Office of the Senate President, and the Office of the Speaker. They argue that their survival heavily depends on their ancestral lands for farming and other livelihood activities.
In a statement issued Wednesday in Abuja by their lawyer, Jerry Aondo, the affected communities—Akaha, Utsuwa, Usula, Udugh, China, Shankodi, Ikyorchiha, and Ayarkeke in the Obi/Awe Local Government Area—expressed their grievances. They reported a tense atmosphere in the area due to frequent unannounced deployments of security personnel, which have led to alleged assaults, arrests, and harassment of residents under the guise of government actions, instilling fear among the people.
Last Friday, a group of armed security operatives reportedly attacked the community, resulting in injuries and loss of property. “We call on Governor Sule to intervene urgently as we are confident of his administration’s ability to deliver justice,” the lawyer stated.
Despite the current tension, the communities expressed confidence in Governor Sule’s administration, acknowledging his past efforts to restore peace and security to the Tiv people. These communities have endured significant hardships, including loss of lives, property, and severe economic distress due to previous communal crises.