Prof. James Ayatse

The Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse has banned all traditional rulers in Tiv land from appearing at political rallies or receptions.

This is according to a statement issued by Media Assistant to the Tor Tiv, Mr Freddie Adamgbe on Tuesday in Makurdi.

According to Ayatse, the traditional rulers are only allowed to hold or have interactions with political aspirants or candidates as well as bless them at their own palaces or chambers.

The Tor Tiv said the ban was in line with the provisions of Section 25 (1a-r) of the Benue State Council of Chiefs and Traditional Councils Law 2016 which warns against involvement of traditional rulers in partisan politics and other related matters.

He urged traditional rulers to abide by the Code of Conduct of their offices and not discriminate against any candidate or political party but rather play their roles as fathers to earn the respect of all.

Ayatse noted that the Tiv Area Traditional Council also frowned at the indiscriminate cultivation and use of Indian Hemp and other harmful substances by the youth.

He called on relevant law enforcement agencies to be more proactive in checkmating the harmful habits being perpetuated by the youth which pose danger to their health as well as the society at large.

He also expressed concern over the poor price of farm produce in the market which, he said was perpetrated by middlemen who connive with buyers to frustrate farmers.

The Tor Tiv also appealed to the state government to reintroduce market boards to enable farmers have value for their produce.