**Press Statement**
**Southern Taraba Youth Coalition for Peace (STYCOP)**
Date: 29th March, 2025
**Subject: Condemnation of Attacks on KYK Team and Divisive Narratives of Wukari Council Boss**
The Southern Taraba Youth Coalition for Peace (STYCOP) unequivocally condemns the recent attack on the KYK team en route to a church conference in Benue State, which tragically resulted in the death of Mr. Urenyang Ndeze, a lecturer of Physics at the Federal University Wukari. This act of violence is a stark reminder of the urgent need for peace and unity in our society.
We are particularly alarmed by the divisive rhetoric employed by the Wukari Local Government Council Chairman, Hon Dauda Agbu Samaila, as articulated by his media aide, who has labeled the attackers as “Tiv Militias.” Such inflammatory language is a dangerous tactic often used by ineffective leaders to sow seeds of ethnic hatred and discord. This narrative not only hampers essential security investigations but also complicates the prosecution of those responsible for crimes in our community.
Historically, this same rhetoric was used by former Wukari Local Government Chairman, which exacerbated ethnic tensions and led to the displacement of over 200 communities in the Wukari area. Many Jukun and Tiv Communities suffered severe damage as a result of this violent crisis. The Tiv Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in particular continue to suffer as they have been denied the right to return to their homes, a situation perpetuated by this negative narrative from constituted authority to move us from fighting criminals to fighting tribes. It is regrettable that the current chairman appears to be following this destructive path. This we total condemn and call on him to retrace his steps in the interest of peace in our region.
We must also remember the actions of Hon. Shiban Tikari, former chairman of Takum Local Government Council, who similarly exploited the “Tiv Militias”, “Kuteb Militias” and “Fulani Militias” narrative to destabilize the region. His administration was marred by state-sponsored kidnappings, murders and sacking of more than 100 communities by mercenary bandits brought against the Kuteb nation. The malicious tactics employed during his tenure highlight the dangers of such narratives in fostering conflict. He is currently on the run over the kidnapping and murdering of the former member representing Takum 1, Hon Hosea Ibi. We will not allow such abuse of office to repeat itself in our region, hence this caution on Wukari Council Boss.
STYCOP calls upon security agencies to fulfill their mandate by preventing, investigating, and prosecuting all crimes. It is imperative to uncover the truth behind recent attacks and hold the perpetrators accountable. We urge the government to exercise caution in its use of language that could inflame tensions and spark another ethnic crisis in Southern Taraba, especially as we work towards the return of IDPs and victims of prior conflicts to their ancestral lands.
We will not remain silent while those in positions of authority undermine the principles of inclusivity and progress for the sake of political gain. Southern Taraba deserves peace, security, and unity.
May our leaders be granted the wisdom to foster a just, united, secure, and thriving society.
**Amb Rikwense Muri, mspsp, mnipr**
President, STYCOP Peace Project
