Benue Governor Cautions Against Disrespect of Traditional Rulers
The Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Dr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, has cautioned citizens against disrespecting traditional rulers, saying any insult directed at any royal father is an affront to the entire Tiv nation.
Governor Alia made this known Friday, at the burial of Barr. Mrs. Betty Mbapirin Achiaku, wife of Ter Kunav, Nyiyongu Achiaku, held at the LGEA primary school, Igirgir, Vandeikya Local Government Area.
The governor advised that all traditional institutions must be respected and protected, warning that disrespect towards any royal father, whether through social media or any other form, will not be condoned even as he urged traditional rulers to caution anyone within their domains who engages in such acts.
Governor Alia reiterated his commitment to restoring peace in Benue State, assuring that with continued collaboration from the Federal Government, the killings would soon be curtailed and displaced persons returned to their ancestral homes.
He expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Mrs. Achiaku, describing her as a strong woman whose wisdom and presence would be greatly missed.
Governor Alia appreciated the solidarity shown to the bereaved family and to his administration, noting that such unity is vital for peace and development.
The former Governor of Benue State, Sen. Gabriel Suswam, who also attended the burial, expressed sadness over the loss of Barr. Achiaku whom he described as a colleague in the legal profession.
Sen. Suswam commended Governor Alia for the developmental strides recorded so far and urged Benue people, particularly the Kunav people to rally behind their son to ensure sustained peace and progress in the state.
Speaking on behalf of Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, the Tor Kwande, Ambrose Iortyer, condoled with the family and encouraged them to take comfort in the exemplary Christian life the deceased lived.
Earlier in his sermon, the Chairman of ECWA Benue State and Northern Cross River, Rev. Gideon Shagba, drew from Ecclesiastes 3, reminding the congregation that everything happens at God’s appointed time—“a time to be born and a time to die.”
Rev. Shagba described the late Betty Achiaku as a devout member of ECWA Church and encouraged the family to find comfort in the belief that she is now resting with the Lord.
The wife of the Tor Tiv, Prof. Mrs. Felicia Ayatse, and the Tor Jechira, HRH Edward Ujege, amongst others also spoke at the funeral.
The burial ceremony drew dignitaries, community leaders, and sympathizers from across the state who gathered to honor the life and legacy of Barr. Mrs. Betty Mbapirin Achiaku.
