The National Association of Jukun Wanu (NAJUWA) has rejected attempts to implicate its people in the recurring violence in Benue State, especially in Tiv communities.
In a statement in Abuja on Sunday, in which it extended profound condolences to the government and people of Benue State over the ongoing violence, NAJUWA also described as ‘baseless and inflammatory’ recent allegations of Jukun complicity in attacks against theit Tiv neighbours’.
The statement, signed by NAJUWA’s President General, Engr. Moses Amankye Adanwo; and Secretary-General, Comrade Sule Musa Atase read: ‘The National Association of Jukun Wanu (NAJUWA) extends its profound condolences to the Government and people of Benue State over the ongoing violence, particularly the tragic killings in Agatu and Idoma communities, as well as the recent incident in Yelwata, Guma Local Government Area. We stand in solidarity with all victims and their families, and we call for urgent, collective action to end the bloodshed in our communities.
‘NAJUWA unequivocally condemns all forms of violence, which run contrary to our values as peace-loving people. However, we firmly reject attempts to implicate the Jukun people in the recurring violence in Benue State, especially in Tiv communities. Recent allegations of Jukun complicity in attacks against our Tiv neighbors are baseless and inflammatory. We urge restraint in public discourse and on social media.
‘For instance, the misleading claims circulated on 28 and 29 April 2025, in posts by Orkuma Benjamin and Aomoty Content, respectively, have only served to fuel division. We reiterate our demand for the retraction of these posts and a public apology.
”A recent investigation conducted by the Divisional Police Officer (DPO) of Guma LGA, alongside other security agencies, has confirmed our position and non-involvement in the Yelwata incident. In fact, members of the Jukun community in Abinsi are currently providing shelter to some displaced Tiv victims of the violence.
‘While we share in the grief of the Idoma, Agatu, and Tiv people, NAJUWA proposes the following concrete steps toward reconciliation and peace:
- Support President Bola Tinubu’s call urging His Excellency, Governor (Rev. Fr. Dr.) Hyacinth Iormem Alia, to include Jukun representatives in the proposed stakeholder committee to ensure inclusive governance.
- Collaborate with security forces and reaffirm our commitment to assist lawful investigations into all incidents of violence.
- Appoint a bilingual (Tiv/English) spokesperson among the Jukun to help correct misinformation and foster interethnic understanding.
‘NAJUWA remains dedicated to peace, justice, and the constitutional rights of all Nigerians.
We therefore call on media outlets to verify claims before publishing incendiary narratives; all communities to reject division and stand united against insecurity’.
