The Tiv and Fulani communities in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State have signed a formal peace accord aimed at ending years of violent clashes and fostering lasting co-existence.
The peace agreement was reached during a high-level meeting held at the 6 Brigade headquarters in Jalingo.
The session was convened and facilitated by the Commander of 6 Brigade Nigerian Army and Sector 3, ‘Operation Whirl Stroke’ (OPWS), Brig. Gen. Kingsley Uwa.
Describing the accord as a “significant milestone,” Brig. Gen. Uwa said the initiative is part of the brigade’s non-kinetic approach to conflict resolution, which emphasizes dialogue, reconciliation, and community-led peace processes over the use of force.
The peace pact comes after prolonged hostilities and rising tension between Tiv and Fulani groups in the area.
To prevent further bloodshed, the army hierarchy invited key stakeholders, including the Gassol Local Government Area Chairman, Abubakar Usman, traditional leaders, community elders, and security officials, to deliberate and find common ground between the feuding parties.
Brig. Gen. Uwa condemned the cycle of violence, warning against vigilantism and the breakdown of law and order.
He emphasized the importance of all parties respecting the rule of law and becoming active agents of peace, noting that sustainable development is only possible in an environment of harmony and mutual respect.
Uwa also lauded the role played by the local government chairman in facilitating the peace process, praising his commitment and leadership in engaging the warring communities.
During the meeting, representatives from both ethnic groups made firm commitments to renounce violence, shun the shielding of criminal elements, and encourage continuous dialogue.
Read also:
- Taraba women protest killing of husbands amid communal clashes
- Horror in Taraba: 24 UMCN members massacred in Fulani Herdsmen attack – Bishop Ande cries out
- Police nab two suspects, seize six firearms in Taraba Operation
They also pledged to support security efforts by providing timely intelligence and working collaboratively to prevent further hostilities.
Reacting to the resolutions, Usman expressed satisfaction with the progress made, thanking the army, particularly troops under the 6 Brigade, for their unwavering commitment to restoring peace in the local government.
He described the accord as a timely intervention that will help rebuild trust and cooperation among the affected communities.
The meeting concluded with the formal signing of the peace agreement, with the parties pledging the full implementation of the resolutions and a renewed partnership with relevant authorities to ensure lasting peace and stability in Gassol Local Government Area.
