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The Executive Chairman of Kwande Local Government Area and Chairman of the Association of Local Governments of Nigeria (ALGON) in Benue State, Rt. Hon. Vitalis Terhile Neji, has visited the Dzer and Mbaper communities in Tondov 1, Shangev-Ya, following a violent communal clash that resulted in several houses burnt, multiple injuries, and reported loss of lives.
Rt. Hon. Neji conducted an on-the-spot assessment of the affected areas to determine both the immediate triggers and underlying causes of the crisis. He strongly condemned the violence, describing the clash between the two kindreds as unfortunate, avoidable, and deeply painful, especially at a time when the people of Turan are already facing persistent attacks by Fulani herdsmen.
“It is painful for brothers to turn against each other, especially at a time when the people of Turan are already grappling with attacks by Fulani herdsmen,” he said, warning that internal conflicts only weaken the community and make it more vulnerable to external threats.
To prevent further escalation, the chairman announced an immediate ban on all kindred forces allegedly fueling the dispute. He made it clear that the local government would not tolerate any form of illegality or mobilisation of unofficial armed groups within Kwande, stating that any individual or group acting outside officially recognised security agencies would face legal consequences.
During the visit, Neji also stopped at the General Hospital in Adikpo, where some of the injured victims are receiving treatment. He sympathised with the victims and their families, assured them of government support, and prayed for their speedy recovery.
The chairman further visited the neighbouring Mbaikyaa kindred, urging residents not to support any of the warring factions but to allow security agencies to handle the situation impartially.
The assessment tour was attended by several officials, including the Vice Chairman of Kwande LGA, Hon. Mrs. Iorstior Rita; Council Leader, Hon. Uchi Francis; Ter Kwande, Engr. Ahile Peter; traditional rulers, security officials, and other stakeholders. The visit underscores ongoing efforts by local authorities to restore calm, promote reconciliation, and prevent recurrence of such incidents in the area.
