Elders of Ukum Local Government Area in Benue State have backed the Ukum Young Elites (UYE), demanding an unreserved apology from Senator Gabriel Torwua Suswam for remarks deemed ?derogatory and insulting? to the Ukum people.

In a press statement signed by over a dozen elders on Sunday, May 18, they gave Suswam seven days to apologise.

?We have read in some national dailies a press statement credited to Ukum Young Elites (UYE), demanding an immediate and unreserved apology from Senator Dr. Gabriel Torwua Suswam,? the elders stated. ?As elders of Ukum, we wish to affirm our support for the youths of Ukum and commend their efforts.?

The elders said protests during Governor Hyacinth Alia?s visit to Ukum arose from grievances over neglected violent attacks, including over 34 deaths in Akpuuna, a massacre of over 100 in Ayati, and another 100 in Chito. They criticised the lack of action despite prior reports of Fulani terrorists camping in Chito for five days. ?The governor visited Akpuuna, but nothing came of the promises he made,? they noted.

They also highlighted the absence of Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps and the lack of condolences from the state. The elders found it notable that Hon. Paul Biam, the highest-ranking Ukum appointee, was absent during Alia?s visit.

Expressing solidarity with the protesting youths, the elders said, ?Ukum people are peaceful, but as the Tiv saying goes, even a goat will bite if persistently pestered.? They accused Suswam of staying silent during these tragedies, only to criticise a justified protest. ?Such conduct does not reflect the respect and integrity expected of a leader,? they added.

The elders reminded Suswam of his Ukum roots, warning, ?The blessings that have sustained his political journey originated from Ukum. The blessings will turn to curses if he fails to publicly apologise within one week.? They demanded he retract his statements and apologise within seven days.

Signatories include Col. Edwin Jando (retd), Elder Ashe JNT, Hon. Gbugho Amokaha D., Barr. Terwase Kogi, Dr. Mfaiga Adagba, Barr. Chaha Senen P., Hon. Kyado Heen J., Hon. Terver Khaki, and others. (Sunday Sun)

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