By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
The Tiv Cultural and Social Association Taraba State, has called on Governor Agbu Kefas, to establish a peace committee that will help address ethnic clashes in the state.
Mr James Baka, the President General of the association made the call while briefing journalists in Jalingo, saying that the development will address the underlying issues and tensions between the Tiv and Jukun communities, develop strategies to de-escalate conflicts, and facilitate the return, resettlement, and reintegration of displaced persons.
Baka disclosed that the call was in alignment with the wise counsel of the Aku Uka of Wukari, HRM. Manu Ada, and in pursuit of enduring peace.
“In alignment with the wise counsel of the Aku Uka of Wukari, HRM. Manu Ada, and in pursuit of enduring peace, the Tiv culture wishes to respectfully urge His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, to establish a peace committee to help address ethnic clashes in Taraba.
“This committee should address the underlying issues and tensions between the Tiv and Jukun communities, develop strategies to de-escalate conflicts, and facilitate the return, resettlement, and reintegration of displaced persons. Such efforts would promote reconciliation and mutual understanding between ethnic groups in the entire Taraba.
“As an association, we remain hopeful that through the collaborative efforts of our leaders, traditional institutions, and community members, peace will once again flourish in our land. We are fully committed to supporting all initiatives aimed at achieving this noble objective,” the group urged.
The association expressed gratitude to Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, for his unwavering dedication to fostering peace and harmony between the Tiv and Jukun people.
They commended the SGF for the recent goodwill message he sent to His Royal Majesty, the Aku Uka of Wukari, calling for reconciliation, unity, and peaceful co-existence.
The group described the gesture as a reflection of Akume’s genuine concern for the well-being of Tiv and Jukun communities, and his steadfast belief that peace is the bedrock of sustainable development and progress.
The group also commended the Aku Uka of Wukari, HRM. Manu Ada for his relentless prayers and advocacy for peace between his Tiv and Jukun subjects.
“Your wisdom and leadership inspire hope and serve as a guiding light toward achieving harmony and mutual respect among our people.
“We stand in solidarity with you in calls for collaborative efforts to resolve the lingering conflicts that have strained relations between our communities.
“We wish to commend governor Agbu Kefas for his steadfast commitment to promoting peace across the state. Your Excellency sir, we wish to state here that your dedication to fostering unity among all ethnic groups, including the Tiv and Jukun, underscores your vision for a Taraba where harmony and progress thrive,” the Tiv umbrella body in Taraba commended.
