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In a significant move to expand the reach and influence of the Tiv traditional institution, the Paramount Ruler of the Tiv Nation, His Royal Majesty Professor James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, CFR, has appointed nineteen distinguished Tiv sons as Uter (Vassal Kings) to serve as official emissaries of the Tiv throne across various states in Nigeria.
The investiture ceremony took place on Wednesday, December 10, 2025, at the Tor Tiv Palace in Gboko, Benue State. During the event, the monarch presented each appointee with Certificates of Appointment and Letters of Introduction to enable formal recognition by government institutions, traditional councils, and security agencies in their respective states of residence.
Designated as second-grade traditional rulers, the new Uter are tasked with promoting Tiv culture, fostering unity among Tiv communities in the diaspora, and acting as credible bridges between the Tiv traditional institution and state authorities. They are expected to uphold cultural values, advocate for peace, and work toward inclusiveness in their host communities.
The appointees include:
– Chief Urbanus Uchersuwe Ukor-ture — Ter Tiv, Adamawa State
– Chief Emmanuel Aondoakaa Hiar — Ter Tiv, Zamfara State
– Chief Ande Dzever — Ter Tiv, Borno State
– Chief Gabriel Yuhwa — Ter Tiv, Katsina State
– Chief Terlumun Fela — Ter Tiv, Sokoto State
– Chief Mchiayum Apevershigh — Ter Tiv, Ebonyi State
– Chief ASP Solomon Shula — Ter Tiv, Imo State
– Amb. Chief Joseph I. Aneh — Ter Tiv, FCT
– Chief Peter Teryila Agber — Ter Tiv, Ogun State
– Chief Samuel Terumbur Orkeghen — Ter Tiv, Bayelsa State
– Chief Raphael Terfa Agba — Ter Tiv, Abia State
– Chief Iorvaa I. Geoffrey Esq. — Ter Tiv, Nasarawa State
– Chief David Ihom Goon — Ter Tiv, Enugu State
– Chief Silvanus I. Bino — Ter Tiv, Kaduna State
– Chief Amos Ihom Alogo — Ter Tiv, Kano State
– Chief Moses Chinor Vor — Ter Tiv, Kogi State
– Chief Engr. Emmanuel Aker — Ter Tiv, Kebbi State
– Chief Engr. James Iyongohime Dogoh — Ter Tiv, Rivers State
– Chief Air Commodore Jonathan Iortyer Afeah (rtd) — Ter Tiv, Lagos State
Addressing the appointees, the Tor Tiv charged them to be worthy ambassadors of the Tiv people, emphasizing the importance of upholding cultural values while promoting peace, unity, and inclusiveness wherever they serve.
These appointments underscore the Tiv traditional institution’s commitment to strengthening cohesion among Tiv communities nationwide and deepening engagement with host states through recognized traditional leadership. As the Tiv nation continues its journey of cultural revival and rebirth, the new Uter are poised to play a vital role in representing the throne with dignity and fostering harmonious relationships across Nigeria.
