The Paramount Ruler of Kwande and Chairman of the Local Government Traditional Council, Chief Engr. Timothy Ahile (Ter Kwande), has demanded the immediate withdrawal of Nigerian Army troops from Kwande Local Government Area following the killing of mourners in Jato-Aka.
The monarch, visibly shaken, visited Jato-Aka in Turan on October 1, a day after attending the burial of the late Ortar Zaki Hanave Laha.
His visit coincided with reports that several students and other mourners were gunned down while returning from the deceased’s residence in Nzaav.
Speaking during the visit, Ter Kwande, alongside the Vice Chairman of Kwande LGA, Hon. Mrs. Rita Sundah Iortsor (who represented the council chairman), and Comr. Aloko Nachi, National President of the Kwande United People Organization (KWUPO), strongly condemned the killings.
He denounced what he described as the “unprofessional and brutal conduct” of the soldiers deployed to the area.
“I have reported this ugly development to both Tor Tiv and Tor Kwande,” the monarch stated, insisting that the military presence should be replaced by police.
“The Nigerian Army, who have turned against us over the years, must leave.”
On his part, Comr. Nachi vowed that KWUPO would seek justice for the victims, including through legal action against the Army and the soldiers responsible.
He added that the association would provide support for the wounded receiving treatment in hospitals. Nachi also revealed that Governor Hyacinth Alia had promised to visit Turan in response to the crisis.
Hon. Mrs. Iortsor, in an emotional address, urged residents to remain calm while leaders pursue redress. She described the soldiers’ actions as “brutal and unjust,” assuring that troops stationed in Jato-Aka would be withdrawn.
The leaders further appealed to the people to maintain peace and order while awaiting the outcome of security and legal processes.
