Panic In The Valley: Tiv Students Flee As Benue–Cross River Land Dispute Turns Deadly

The Benue State Police Command has confirmed the resurgence of violent clashes tied to a long-standing land dispute between border communities in Benue and Cross River States.

The renewed conflict, which began on July 18 around Mbazerem in Vandeikya LGA (Benue) and Andabonkep in Obudu LGA (Cross River), escalated again on Saturday, this time spreading into Obudu town.

A man identified simply as Agege, a native of Tsar in Benue’s Vandeikya LGA, was reportedly attacked in Obudu. While unconfirmed, sources fear he may have been killed, though his body had not been found as of the time of filing this report.

In response to fears of retaliatory violence, the Chairman of Vandeikya LGA ordered the swift evacuation of Tiv students studying in Obudu. The evacuation was carried out without incident, with police escorts ensuring the students’ safe return to Benue State.

Security has been significantly increased in the volatile areas, with joint operatives from both states working to prevent further unrest.

To de-escalate tensions, Area Commanders from Benue and Cross River are expected to convene a peace meeting involving traditional rulers, community stakeholders, and senior police officers from Zones 4 and 6.