Kwande Paramount Ruler Demands Army Withdrawal After Killings in Jato-Aka

The Paramount Ruler of Kwande, Chief Engineer Timothy Ahile (Ter Kwande), has called for the immediate evacuation of Nigerian Army troops from Kwande Local Government Area following the reported killing of mourners in Jato-Aka.

The tragic incident occurred on October 1, when several students and other mourners returning from the funeral of the late Ortar Zaki Hanave Laha in Nzaav were allegedly shot dead by soldiers.

A visibly shaken Ter Kwande, who personally visited Turan after the incident, condemned the soldiers for their “unprofessional and brutal conduct.”

He declared that police should replace the troops in the area, stating:

“The Nigerian Army, who have turned against us over the years, must leave. I have reported this ugly development to both Tor Tiv and Tor Kwande.”

Calls for Justice and Support

• Comrade Nachi, representing KWUPO, vowed to pursue justice for the victims, including possible lawsuits against the Army and the involved soldiers.

• He confirmed that the group would also support those injured and currently receiving treatment in hospitals.

• Nachi revealed that Governor Hyacinth Alia has pledged to visit Turan to directly address the matter.

In a moving appeal, Hon. Mrs. Iortsor urged residents to remain calm as investigations and legal procedures take shape.
She assured the people that the soldiers stationed in Jato-Aka would be withdrawn, describing their actions as “brutal and unjust.”

Local leaders further emphasized the need for peace and order while awaiting government intervention.