By Aloysius Umalo, Makurdi
The Benue State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has strongly condemned what it described as the disgraceful and sponsored kidnapping and disruption of a planned mass burial for 11 members of the Turan Community in Jato-Aka, Kwande Local Government Area, who were recently killed by suspected armed Fulani bandits.
In a statement issued by the State Publicity Secretary, Daniel Ihomun, the party said it received disturbing reports that some sponsored thugs allegedly abducted a mortuary attendant, Mr. MT Tiga, and sealed his mortuary facility in an attempt to stop the Turan Community from conducting a mass burial for the victims.
The victims were reportedly killed in Mbachoon, Yaav District of Turan in Kwande Local Government Area.
The APC described the act as barbaric and inhumane, stressing that it represents an assault on the fundamental rights of a Community to mourn and bury its dead with dignity.
According to the party, the people of Turan have the right to determine how they lay their loved ones to rest and to draw global attention to the ongoing suffering and killings allegedly being perpetrated against them by armed bandits.
“It is deeply troubling that in the face of relentless attacks and loss of lives, the people are now being denied even the basic humanity of burying their dead,” the statement noted, asking whether the community could no longer be allowed to bury its dead in peace.
While commiserating with the bereaved families and the entire Turan community over the tragedy, the APC commended Mr. Alex Barbir for travelling from the United States to stand in solidarity with the people, witness the burial, and support efforts to bring international attention to the killings in Benue as well as assist in rebuilding homes destroyed during the attacks.
The party also appreciated Rev. Pastor Ezekiel Dachomo of Plateau State for what it described as his consistent voice of compassion and support for victims of the attacks in Benue State.
It further acknowledged the humanitarian support provided by the United States-based organisation, Equipping the Persecuted, to families of the slain victims, including financial assistance and the donation of caskets.
The APC called on the Benue State Government to immediately investigate the alleged abduction of the mortuary attendant, the sealing of the mortuary facility, and the reported harassment of the Turan Community.
The party maintained that government exists to protect citizens and should not intimidate grieving families or interfere with how Communities choose to bury their dead ones.
