Tiv Nation Storms Lafia Palace, Backs Emir Bage on Unity

From Abel Zwanke, Lafia

Thousands of Tiv sons and daughters in Nasarawa State have stormed the palace of the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Mohammed Bage (Rtd), in a historic show of solidarity, declaring renewed commitment to unity, peace and inclusive development across the state.

In what observers described as a bold unity move, the Tiv community, led by the Ter Tiv II in Nasarawa StatChief Geoffrey Iorvaa, paid a high-powered visit to the Emir of Lafia and Chairman of the Nasarawa State Traditional Council of Chiefs, Justice Sidi Mohammed Bage (Rtd).

The delegation, which included the President of the Tiv Development Association (TIDA), Comrade Simeon Apusu, alongside other prominent stakeholders, witnessed a massive turnout, with supporters flooding major routes leading to the Emir’s palace.

Participants at the event described the gathering as “a fresh breath” and “a renewed pathway toward the liberation and advancement of the Tiv people.”

Speaking during the visit, Iorvaa called on Tiv sons and daughters to remain united and resolute, noting that the engagement was part of broader efforts to strengthen peace and socio-economic development in their communities.

“We must remain united and steadfast as we pursue collective progress. This engagement is part of ongoing efforts to secure a better future for our people through peace and collaboration,” he said.

Responding, the Emir of Lafia, Justice Sidi Mohammed Bage (Rtd), commended the Tiv leadership for the visit and their commitment to dialogue and peaceful coexistence.

“This visit is highly commendable. Unity and dialogue among our people are critical to achieving lasting peace and development in the state,” the monarch stated.

The large turnout caused heavy vehicular and human traffic within Lafia metropolis, underscoring the significance of the event.

The development is widely seen as a major step in strengthening relations between the Tiv community and the traditional institution in Nasarawa State, with stakeholders expressing optimism about a new phase of cooperation, unity and collective progress.