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Jukun vs Benue State Government, Tor Tiv, others: Falana demands Chief Judge to assign suit
Jukun vs Benue State Government, Tor Tiv, others: Falana demands Chief Judge to assign suit
By: Our Reporter
Solicitors to National Association of Jukun Wanu (NAJUWA), Falana and Falana’s Chambers have complained to the Chief Judge of Benue State over the non-assigning of a suit involving its client and the Benue State Government and four others.
In a letter of complaint dated 18, April, 2024, the Chambers expressed dismay over a case filed on 2, February, 2024 and yet to be assigned.
In the letter signed by Samuel Ogala Esq for Principal Partner, it informed the Chief Judge that the claimants and all Jukun Wanu indigenes are already agitated by the non-assignment of the case hence the need to act urgently on the letter by exercising its administrative powers by assigning the suit to a court for adjudication.
According to reports reaching this medium, the Benue State Chief Judge has been assigning cases to various courts for adjudication even after February 2, 2024 when NAJUWA suit was filed but left it unattended to without reason.
NAJUWA wants the world to note that the Tiv Traditional Council have been using some sinister and unconstitutional means to scuttle the suit, which is being spearheaded by Tor Tiv using Ter Guma and Tor Lobi who invited some of its members to meetings which were explicitly recorded in which our communities were tasked to withdraw the lawsuit or in the alternative write a letter of disclaimer which can be used to discredit the matter in court.
They have also threatened that their plan to install a Tiv Chief in Abinsi will soon be realised despite NAJUWA’s matter in court.
However, the Jukun Wanu Association (JUWA) in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) in its April meeting unanimously urged NAJUWA not to relent or withdraw the suit.
NAJUWA sued the office of the Benue State Governor, Benue State Government, the Speaker of the Benue State House of Assembly, Benue State House of Assembly, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice of Benue State and HRM, Orchivirigh Professor Ortese James Ayatse, the Tor Tiv and President, Benue State Council of Chiefs over decades of discriminatory policies against Benue Jukun.
NAJUWA declared that by virtue of the provision of section 25 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, the people of Jukun Wanu are indigenes of Guma Local Government, Makurdi Local Government and Logo Local Government Area of Benue State and citizens of Nigeria and as such are entitled to equal protection under any law made in Nigeria including Benue State Council of Chiefs and Traditional Council Law 2016, that by virtue of the provision of section 42 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, the people of Jukun Wanu whom are indigenes of Guma Local Government, Makurdi Local Government and Logo Local Government Areas of Benue State are entitled to freedom from discrimination on the basis of the circumstances of their birth and that by virtue of section 25 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 as amended, the respondents are not competent to make any law or adopt any policy which discriminates against the people of Jukun Wanu whom are indigenes of Benue State in any manner whatsoever and howsoever.
The Claimant declared that the exclusion of Jukun Wanu whom are indigenes of Guma Local Government, Makurdi Local Government and Logo Local Government of Benue State from Schedule 5 and 6 of Section 18 (1) of the Benue State Council of Chiefs and Traditional Council Law 2016 is illegal and unconstitutional.
NAJUWA averred that its members are Jukun Wanu (Riverine Jukun) whom are indigenes of Benue State whose ancestral origin can be traced to many communities in the state.
According to it, these communities include but not limited to Abinsi, Agyogo (Makurdi) Akatungu (North Bank), Agyetashi, Azhoko (Ankwa), Abweni, Anmor (Fiidi), Ando Sede (Bajimba), Anuwha, Atenge and Anyishi.
Others are Asugu, Gidin Mangoro, Akatsu, Agbodo, Zhamindo, Ashuku, Kitsani, Aguye and Asokpoga among others.
NAJUWA are requesting for N1billion as damages for prolonged act of discrimination against Benue Jukun.
The Association urges the Tiv Traditional Council to follow the path of honour, decency and justice to grant Jukun their constitutional right or know that the Jukun will never waver or abdicate their right on this matter or any other thus will never withdraw this case, no matter their intimidation or threats.
However, NAJUWA noted that Jukun people will follow the path of peace and as law abiding citizens, continue to wait patiently until justice is achieved in this matter.
Jukun vs Benue State Government, Tor Tiv, others: Falana demands Chief Judge to assign suit
Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of the Nigerian Army have rescued two kidnapped victims during a routine patrol in Yagba West Local Government Area of Kogi State.
Security sources said the operation took place at about 7:01 p.m. on April 30 when troops of 12 Brigade deployed at Okoloke Patrol Base intercepted suspected kidnappers at Ejiba community.
The sources disclosed that the troops acted swiftly, forcing the suspects to abandon their victims.
According to the sources, the two kidnapped persons were successfully rescued and later reunited with their families.
They added that security patrols have been intensified in the area to prevent further incidents and ensure the safety of residents.
Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi
Nigeria Summons South Africa Envoy Over Renewed Anti-Foreigner Protests, Attacks on Nigerians
By: Michael Mike
The Federal Government has summoned the Acting High Commissioner of South Africa following mounting concerns over a fresh wave of anti-foreigner protests and reported attacks targeting Nigerian citizens and their businesses.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs disclosed that the envoy is expected at its headquarters in Abuja on Monday, May 4, 2026, where Nigerian authorities will formally register their strong displeasure over developments seen as threatening the long-standing diplomatic and economic ties between both countries.
At the heart of the meeting are recent demonstrations by various groups in South Africa, which have reportedly degenerated into harassment, violence, and destruction of foreign-owned businesses—many belonging to Nigerians. The incidents have triggered widespread anger among Nigerians, amid fears for the safety of thousands living and working in South Africa.
Spokesperson of the Ministry, Kimiebi Ebienfa on Saturday said the government is deeply worried about the implications of the unrest on bilateral relations, stressing that Nigeria remains committed to protecting its citizens abroad while pursuing diplomatic solutions.
Despite the rising tension, the Federal Government urged Nigerians to remain calm, assuring that steps are being taken at the highest diplomatic levels to address the situation and ensure the safety and dignity of its nationals.
Nigeria and South Africa share one of Africa’s most strategic bilateral relationships, rooted in a history of solidarity dating back to Nigeria’s support for the anti-apartheid struggle. However, relations have repeatedly come under strain due to recurring outbreaks of xenophobic violence in South Africa.
Notably, major incidents in 2008, 2015, and 2019 saw widespread attacks on foreign nationals, including Nigerians, leading to deaths, looting, and destruction of properties. The 2019 crisis, in particular, sparked a diplomatic row, with Nigeria recalling its High Commissioner and boycotting the World Economic Forum on Africa 2019 in protest.
In response to past crises, both countries established diplomatic mechanisms, including an early warning system and joint consular forums, aimed at preventing further violence and protecting citizens. Despite these measures, sporadic tensions and anti-immigrant sentiments have persisted, often fueled by local grievances over unemployment and crime.
Analysts warned that the current developments, if not swiftly contained, could once again test diplomatic ties between Africa’s two largest economies and undermine regional integration efforts under frameworks such as the African Union and the African Continental Free Trade Area.
The outcome of Monday’s meeting is therefore seen as crucial in determining whether both nations can de-escalate tensions and reaffirm their commitment to mutual respect, cooperation, and the protection of citizens on both sides.
Nigeria Summons South Africa Envoy Over Renewed Anti-Foreigner Protests, Attacks on Nigerians
Troops Rescue Injured Victim After Attack by Berom militia in Plateau
By Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Safe Haven have rescued a civilian who sustained machete injuries following an attack by Berom militia along Bachi–Werreng Road in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources said the incident occurred at about 7:20 p.m. on May 1 when suspected criminals attacked the victim along the road.
The sources disclosed that troops of Sector 6, deployed at Bachi, swiftly responded to a distress call and moved to the scene.
According to the sources, the attackers fled upon the arrival of the troops, abandoning the injured victim.
They added that the victim, who sustained machete cuts, was immediately evacuated to a hospital in Rachi for medical treatment.
The sources further said the assailants carted away the victim’s motorcycle during the attack.
They noted that security patrols have been intensified in the area, while efforts are ongoing to track down the fleeing suspects.
Troops Rescue Injured Victim After Attack by Berom militia in Plateau
Troops Rescue Two Kidnap Victims in Kogi
Two Impostors in Military Uniform Arrested in Kaduna
Nigeria Summons South Africa Envoy Over Renewed Anti-Foreigner Protests, Attacks on Nigerians
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