Reported by: Ijeoma G. | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
The Paramount Ruler and Chairman of the Kwande Local Government Traditional Council, Chief Engr. Timothy Ahile (Ter Kwande), has called for the immediate withdrawal of Nigerian Army personnel from Kwande Local Government Area following the shooting of mourners in Jato-Aka. Ter Kwande, visibly distressed, returned to Jato-Aka, Turan, on October 1, 2025, after attending the burial of one of his Tors, the late Ortar Zaki Hanave Laha, which took place on September 30. His visit was prompted by reports that students and other mourners were shot while returning from the deceased’s country home in Nzaav.
Speaking alongside the Vice Chairman of Kwande Local Government, Hon. Mrs. Rita Sundah Iortsor, who represented the council chairman, and Comr. Aloko Nachi, National President of the Kwande United People Organization (KWUPO), Ter Kwande condemned what he described as the “unprofessional and brutal conduct” of soldiers deployed to Jato-Aka. He said he had briefed both the Tor Tiv and the Tor Kwande about the incident and urged that the military presence be replaced with increased police deployment, asserting that the Nigerian Army, “who have turned against us over the years, must leave.”
Comr. Aloko Nachi assured that KWUPO would pursue justice for the victims, disclosing that legal action is being prepared against the Nigerian Army and the officers involved. He added that the organisation would also take responsibility for the care of those currently receiving treatment in hospitals. Nachi further conveyed a message from the Executive Governor of Benue State, who has promised to visit Turan before nightfall.
Hon. Mrs. Rita Sundah Iortsor, speaking through tears, appealed to residents for calm and restraint as both the council and traditional authorities work towards justice. She described the actions of the soldiers as “brutal and unjust” and reiterated the promise that troops stationed in Jato-Aka would be withdrawn.
Residents of the area were urged to maintain peace and uphold law and order as security and legal processes unfold. Traditional and local government leaders assured the community that they would continue to coordinate with security agencies and legal teams to ensure a prompt and official response to the incident.
The tragic events in Jato-Aka have heightened tension in Kwande LGA, prompting renewed calls for accountability and a review of military operations in civilian areas. Ter Kwande and other local leaders emphasised the need for justice for the victims and a return to normalcy for the community, stressing that cooperation between authorities and citizens is crucial in preventing further escalation.
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