
INSIGHT BY OPPY
June 18, 2025 at 03:33 PM
His Royal Majesty, Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, the Tor Tiv, displayed remarkable courage and clarity when addressing President Bola Tinubu during his visit to Benue State. With unwavering resolve, the paramount ruler confronted the harsh realities of the ongoing violence in Benue, particularly the devastating Yelewata massacre, where over 200 lives were lost to suspected herdsmen. Unlike the often-muted or diplomatic tones of political leaders, the Tor Tiv spoke with unflinching honesty, emphasizing that the crisis is not about communal clashes or living peacefully with neighbours but about a deeper, systemic failure to address the "silent genocide" plaguing the state. His bold plea, “Give Benue peace,” resonated as a powerful call to action, reminding Tinubu of the significant electoral support Benue offered him and urging immediate federal intervention to restore security and enable farmers to return to their lands.
In stark contrast, Governor Hyacinth Alia’s focus on organizing a “colourful welcome” for the President, amid such tragedy, has been criticized as a misplaced priority, with many feeling he sidesteps the gravity of the crisis. The Tor Tiv’s fearless truth-telling outshines this, showcasing leadership that prioritizes the people’s suffering over political optics. His words cut through the noise, demanding accountability and justice for Benue’s victims, making him a beacon of hope and a voice for the voiceless. For your post, you could highlight this contrast, praising the Tor Tiv’s bravery while calling out the governor’s disconnect, rallying support for a leader who dares to speak truth to power in the face of adversity.
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