Obudu Council Chairman condemns killing of Tiv resident, calls for calm amid communal unrest

The Executive Chairman of Obudu Local Government Area, Hon. (Amb.) Peter Akonfe Undiandeye, has strongly condemned the killing of a Tiv indigene in Obudu, describing it as a “barbaric, unfortunate, and totally unacceptable act” that undermines ongoing efforts to preserve peace and unity among communities in the region.

The killing, which followed a violent clash between the Mbazerem community in Vandiekya Local Government Area of Benue State and Abonkib village in Obudu, has heightened tensions in the area.

The unrest has also led to the disappearance of two sons of Obudu—identified as Nicolas from the Aboinkib clan and Ake from the Atiekpe clan—who have yet to be found since the incident.

In a statement issued on Tuesday, July 22, 2025, Hon. Undiandeye expressed deep sorrow over the turn of events and urged all affected communities to exercise restraint.

“I deeply regret the loss of lives on both sides and extend my heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families,” he said. “Every life is valuable, and no act of violence can be justified. The cycle of revenge must stop. Taking the law into one’s hands only leads to further tragedy.”

The chairman emphasized that retaliatory violence is never the answer and called on both the Tiv community and indigenous Obudu residents to remain calm while the government and security agencies work to restore peace and bring perpetrators to justice.

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He assured the public that security operatives have been fully mobilized across flashpoints in Obudu to forestall further escalation of violence. “We are taking proactive measures to de-escalate tensions and ensure justice is served. No one should feel unsafe or marginalized within Obudu,” Hon. Undiandeye added.

He also appealed to traditional rulers, youth leaders, and community stakeholders to intensify peacebuilding efforts through dialogue and mutual understanding.

“Now more than ever, we must come together—regardless of ethnicity or background—to reaffirm our shared commitment to peaceful coexistence. I call on all residents of Obudu, including our Tiv brothers and sisters, to stay law-abiding, united, and cooperative during this challenging time,” the statement concluded.

The local government chairman reiterated his administration’s resolve to maintain peace and uphold justice, adding that investigations into the incidents are ongoing and anyone found culpable will face the full weight of the law.