Benue Govt Steps In to Resolve Guma–Gwer Crisis, Takes Over Disputed Land

From Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The Benue State Government has intervened to bring an end to the lingering conflict between Mbakera community in Mbaivur, Gwer Local Government Area (LGA), and Mbawa community in Guma LGA, announcing the takeover of the disputed land for immediate government use.

The Commissioner for Lands, Survey and Solid Minerals, Rev. Frederick Ikyaan, made the announcement during a meeting in his office with officials of the ministry and traditional rulers from the two affected communities.
Rev. Ikyaan explained that the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia is committed to inclusive governance and does not intend to sideline traditional institutions in matters of this nature. He said the traditional rulers were invited to formally brief them again on the government’s decision to take over the land.
Providing further clarification, the Surveyor General of the state, Surv. Emmanuel Nôngo, stated that the decision to assume control of the land had been taken some time ago. However, due to changes in leadership within the ministry, the current Commissioner considered it necessary to engage the communities before proceeding with further actions.
Responding, the Ter Gwer, HRH Chief Dominic Akpe, expressed gratitude to Governor Alia for responding to their long-standing concerns and for appointing a Commissioner for Lands from their area, whom he said has adopted an inclusive approach.
Chief Akpe welcomed the government’s decision, noting that it would finally put an end to a crisis that had resisted resolution for years and had resulted in the loss of lives and destruction of property. He added that the communities were aware that the land ultimately belongs to the government and therefore had no reason to oppose the takeover.
Similarly, the Ter Guma, HRH Chief Dennis Shemberga, who was represented by Mueter Ihyarev, Chief Shonyi Augustine, said he shared the same views as his Gwer counterpart. He emphasized that, by law, all land belongs to the government and affirmed that they would not oppose the decision.
Also speaking, the District Head of Mbawa, Chief Joseph Ortese, thanked the ministry for its timely intervention and urged the government to act swiftly to resolve all outstanding issues and bring lasting peace to the area.