The TivNation Initiative for National Reform Council (TNINRC), speaking on behalf of the Tiv People, has issued a compelling open letter to the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, political leaders, traditional rulers, and security authorities, demanding urgent intervention in the escalating insecurity across the North-Central region, particularly in Benue, Nasarawa, and Taraba States.
The Council expressed deep grief over mass killings, neglect of victims, and silence from authorities, describing the situation as a grave national emergency that threatens peace and unity in the country.
In Keana, Nasarawa State, the TNINRC revealed that 394 lives were lost in brutal attacks, with corpses still lying unburied. Similarly, in Yelwata, Benue State, about 200 people were massacred, yet the victims’ families have not received even a message of condolence or any form of compensation.
The Council lamented that statements from federal authorities appear to prioritize the protection of cattle over the protection of human lives, a position it described as shameful and insensitive to the plight of citizens.
The TNINRC further called on religious and traditional leaders to rise to the occasion. His Eminence, the Sultan of Sokoto, was specifically urged to break his silence and openly condemn the killings, as silence, according to the Council, emboldens aggressors and deepens mistrust.
The Council also appealed to the Tor Tiv, Ooni of Ife, Oba of Benin, Aku Uka, Sultan of Sokoto, and other royal fathers to unite in solidarity with victims and send a national message of peace and justice.
On the responsibilities of government, the TNINRC demanded the immediate suspension of political campaigns and activities in all crisis zones until peace is restored.
It further gave the Federal Government a 90-day timeline to demonstrate concrete action, including adequate deployment of security forces, provision of humanitarian relief to displaced communities, compensation to bereaved families, and prosecution of perpetrators through lawful means.
Failure to act, the Council warned, would leave communities with no choice but to seek lawful alternatives, including peaceful civil mobilization and legal redress.
The Council emphasized that the Tiv people, who have historically defended Nigeria’s unity, now feel abandoned and stigmatized. It stressed that human lives must come before politics and cattle economics, insisting that peace, justice, and reconciliation must be placed at the heart of national priorities.
In a strongly worded statement signed by Hon. ACT Bisibi Ati, speaking for the TivNation Initiative for National Reform Council, the group declared:
“Nigeria stands at a crossroads.
If the killings in the Middle Belt continue unchecked, the nation risks sliding into dangerous instability. We say NO to another civil war. We say YES to justice, peace, and unity. The time to act is now.”
For further enquiries, the TNINRC directed the media and public to reach Hon. ACT Bisibi Ati on 07035552515 or via email at manicom.sa@gmail.com.
