In a landmark move to halt years of violent conflict, the Tiv and Fulani communities in Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State have signed a peace accord aimed at restoring lasting harmony.
The peace initiative, held at the 6 Brigade Headquarters conference room in Jalingo on Monday, was facilitated by the leadership of the 6 Brigade/Sector 3 of Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), under Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa.
Describing the development as a crucial stride toward enduring peace, Brigadier General Uwa said the accord was part of the military’s ongoing non-kinetic peace strategy.
“This move is part of the Brigade’s ongoing non-kinetic peace initiative,” he said, noting that the military’s involvement followed increasing tensions and unresolved grievances between the two communities.
In a bid to foster dialogue and trust, Brigadier General Uwa convened key stakeholders including Gassol council chairman Abubakar Usman, traditional rulers, elders, and security agencies to deliberate on a pathway to peaceful coexistence.
While addressing the stakeholders, Uwa condemned the continuous cycle of communal violence and warned against resorting to self-help.
He stressed, “Individuals or groups must not take the law into their hands,” and urged everyone to champion unity, uphold the rule of law, and act as “ambassadors of peace and development,” emphasizing that “meaningful progress can only be achieved through unity and respect.”
The council chairman, Abubakar Usman, was praised by the Brigade commander for his active role in rallying support for the initiative.
In their resolutions, representatives of both the Tiv and Fulani ethnic groups agreed to end hostilities, foster open communication, and reject any form of support or protection for criminal elements. They also committed to working closely with security agencies and sharing timely intelligence to avert future clashes.
Moved by the collective commitment, Usman applauded the Nigerian Army and the 6 Brigade troops for their unrelenting pursuit of peace in the region.
He stated that the initiative is “timely and a vital step toward rebuilding trust and collaboration among the communities.”
The meeting concluded with both communities formally signing a peace pact, pledging their loyalty to the agreed resolutions and vowing to support the full implementation through cooperation with relevant authorities.
