By Henry Ibya, Makurdi
The Jechira Students Association National Secretariat, JESA, in Benue State has strongly condemned the destruction of condolence banners honoring late traditional ruler, His Royal Highnesses Clement Uganden (KSM), by suspected hoodlums.
The banners erected by the House of Representatives member, Sesoo Ikpagher, were torn down and vandalized on August 20 in Vandeikya, during a wake-keep in honor of the late monarch, Uganden (Tor-Jechira 1).
Comrade Teryange Audu, National President of JESA, in a statement Wednesday in Makurdi,described the act as “barbaric, insensitive, and disrespectful” to the memory of the traditional ruler, who was known for his peaceful nature.
“This senseless destruction of condolence banners is an affront to the values of respect, dignity, and compassion that our institution holds dear,” Audu said, demanding that the perpetrators be brought to justice and called on authorities to take immediate action to prevent such incidents.
The Jechira students’ union expressed solidarity with the lawmaker, Ikpagher and the people of Jerchira, who are mourning the loss of their beloved leader.
Other mourners within Jechira have also condemned the vandalism, saying it “betrays the spirit of unity and respect” that the banners represented.
The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with many calling for greater respect and sensitivity towards the grieving community.
Meanwhile, the Jechira students have vowed to continue promoting peaceful and respectful dialogue and to honor the memory of the traditional ruler through peaceful means.