Forum of Ayatutu Professors, Sunday, expressed deep concern over the ongoing killings and attacks by armed herdsmen in Benue state, noting that the violence has resulted in significant destruction and hardship for the people.
The Forum, which is a non-profit and non-political organisation comprises professors of Tiv extraction worldwide.
In a statement signed by Prof. Tor Joe Iorapuu, Chairman, and Prof. Simon Verlumun Irtwange, Secretary, Board of Trustees & Council of Management, the forum condemned the attacks and accused the herdsmen of seeking to Islamise the region, grab land, disrupt the economy, and mine minerals.
The Forum criticised the various tiers of government for failing to protect the lives and property of the Tiv people and Benue state citizens in general.
The group also advocated for the mobilisation and organisation of the people to defend their lives, land, and future well-being.
The forum called for unity and focus among the Tiv and Benue people to collectively challenge and fight what it refers to as humiliating.
The Forum highlighted the need for collective action to address the security challenges facing Benue state and ensure the safety and well-being of its citizens.
It also recommended the expansion of the role of the Benue State Bureau of Homeland Security to include farming communities protection and proposed an annual levy of N100,000 for all taxable adults in Tiv land and Benue dtate to fund the activities of the renamed Bureau.
In their statement, the Forum encouraged the Governor of Benue state, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, and all the Paramount Traditional Rulers to remain focused in addressing the security challenges.
They also urged the National and State Legislators of Benue to take urgent action to deal with the situation.