Jukun Association Rejects Blame For Benue Violence

The National Association of Jukun Wanu (NAJUWA) has firmly rejected what it described as baseless attempts to implicate the Jukun people in the recent wave of violence affecting Tiv communities in Benue State.

In a statement issued yesterday in Abuja, NAJUWA president general Comrade Sule Musa Atase condemned the allegations of Jukun’s involvement in the attacks, calling them “inflammatory and misleading.”

The statement urged caution in both public commentary and online discourse, warning that unverified accusations could further deepen tensions.

“We stand in solidarity with all victims and their families,” the association said, adding that urgent, collective action was needed to end the bloodshed.

NAJUWA denounced all forms of violence, describing them as inconsistent with the peace-loving values of the Jukun people.

The group extended its condolences to the Government and people of Benue State, specifically mourning the recent tragic killings in Agatu, Idoma communities, and Yelwata in Guma local government area.

Citing recent social media posts made on 28 and 29 April by individuals named Orkuma Benjamin and Aomoty Content, NAJUWA claimed that the content spread falsehoods and called for public retractions and apologies.

According to the statement, an investigation by the Divisional Police Officer of Guma LGA, NAJUWA noted, had exonerated the Jukun community, confirming their non-involvement in the Yelwata incident.

“In fact, members of our community in Abinsi are currently hosting displaced Tiv victims,” the group stated.

To promote reconciliation, NAJUWA outlined a series of proposals, including supporting President Bola Tinubu’s recommendation that Governor Hyacinth Alia include Jukun representatives in the state’s proposed stakeholder committee.

“Other proposals include collaboration with security agencies, assisting with investigations, and appointing a bilingual Tiv-English spokesperson to counter misinformation and build interethnic trust.”

NAJUWA reiterated its commitment to peace, justice, and the constitutional rights of all Nigerians.