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Vandeikya, Benue State – Today, during the funeral service of Barr. Mrs. Betty Abayol Achiaku, wife of the late Ter Kunav, HRH Chief Josephus Nyiyongu Achiaku, Benue State Governor Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia delivered a strong message on the sanctity of traditional institutions and the ongoing efforts to restore peace in the state.
In his remarks, Governor Alia stressed the importance of upholding the honour and dignity of royal fathers, declaring that any form of disrespect toward a traditional ruler – whether in person or through social media – constitutes an affront to the entire Tiv nation and will not be tolerated.
“Any act of disrespect toward a royal father, whether in person or through social media, constitutes an affront to the Tiv nation and will not be tolerated. Our traditional institutions remain central to our identity and must be protected,” the governor stated.
He described the late Barr. Mrs. Betty Achiaku as a distinguished woman of strength, wisdom, and deep Christian virtues whose life positively touched many in the community.
Governor Alia also used the occasion to reiterate his administration’s commitment to restoring lasting peace across Benue State. He expressed confidence that, with continued support and collaboration from the Federal Government, the cycle of unfortunate killings will soon come to an end and internally displaced persons will return safely to their ancestral homes.
“We mourn the passing of a great woman, but we are also reminded of the unity we show in times of grief must translate into collective action for peace, stability, and sustainable development,” he added.
The funeral, held in Vandeikya, drew traditional rulers, government officials, clergymen, family members, and community leaders who gathered to pay their last respects to the late queen of Kunav.
Governor Alia concluded his tribute with a prayer: “May the Almighty grant her eternal rest and comfort all who mourn. Amen.”
The event underscored both the deep cultural reverence for traditional leadership in Tivland and the state government’s determination to protect that heritage while working tirelessly to end insecurity and foster reconciliation across Benue State.
