Tiv and Fulani communities in Taraba State sign peace accord supervised by Nigerian Army

LEADERS of the Tiv and Fulani communities in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State have signed a peace accord aimed at ending the ongoing and recurring clashes between the two ethnic groups over recent years.

Nigeria's Middle Belt has been wracked incessant clashes between Fulani cattle herdsmen and local farming communities for years now as livestock destroy farms, creating tension. When farmers protest the destruction of their crops, the reprisals from the herdsmen tends to be very brutal, as they attack villages with AK47 assault rifles, sometimes leaving hundreds dead.

In a bid to end such clashes in Taraba State, leaders of the two ethnic groups met in the capital Jalingo and signed a peace accord. This agreement, which was facilitated by the leadership of the Sixth Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke of the Nigerian Army commanded by Brigadier Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa, was described as a significant step toward fostering lasting peace in Taraba.

Speaking at the meeting, held at the Sixth Brigade Headquarters conference room in Jalingo, Brigadier  Uwa, said the move was part of the brigade’s ongoing non-kinetic peace initiative. In a proactive effort to avert violence and restore mutual trust, Brigadier General Uwa, invited key stakeholders from the area, including the local government chairman Abubakar Usman, traditional rulers, elders and security officials, to deliberate on peaceful coexistence.

While condemning the recurrence of communal violence in the area, the commandant cautioned against individuals or groups taking the law into their hands. He emphasised the rule of law and urged participants to serve as ambassadors of peace and development, noting that meaningful progress can only be achieved through unity and respect.

He also commended the Gassol Local Government Area chairman for his proactive role in mobilising support for the peace initiative. Representatives of both ethnic groups resolved to abandon hostilities, embrace open communication and reject the protection of criminal elements.

They also collectively pledged to work closely with security agencies and provide timely intelligence to prevent further conflict. Overwhelmed by the decisions arrived at, the local government chairman applauded the Nigerian Army, particularly troops of the Sixth Brigade, for their commitment and efforts in ensuring peace in Gassol.

According to the local government area chairman, the initiative is timely and a vital step towards rebuilding trust and collaboration among the communities. Both parties who signed a formal peace pact, affirmed their commitment to the resolutions and vowed to work with relevant authorities for their full implementation.