Communities in Benue State, Nigeria, have officially signed a peace accord to address and resolve their long-standing conflicts. The agreement, which was reached on Sunday in Makurdi, involves conflicting groups including Ologba and Egba in Agatu Local Government Area (LGA) and Tivs and Jukuns in Fiidi, Makurdi LGA. This truce aims to prevent the resurgence of conflict that has persisted for over a decade due to disputes over natural resources such as fish ponds and farmlands.
The peace accord was facilitated by International Alert in collaboration with the Benue State Peace Commission and local community organizations, as part of the ‘Powering Peace through Climate Action Project.’ Dr. Paul Nyulaku-Bemshima, Country Director of International Alert, highlighted the organization’s efforts to bridge divides and build trust through dialogue and cooperation. He emphasized the importance of addressing the underlying issues exacerbated by climate change and ethnic tensions.
The peace agreement includes the development of local peace and adaptation plans, along with empowerment projects such as training for briquette-making, the provision of industrial fish kiln machines, and the installation of solar-powered boreholes. Sunday Jimoh, Project Manager at International Alert, outlined these initiatives as part of the strategy to support community resilience and economic development.
Joseph Har, Special Adviser on Security to the Governor of Benue, praised International Alert’s efforts and promised to oversee the proper distribution and maintenance of the project resources. He expressed optimism about the peace achieved during his tenure and stressed the importance of upholding the agreement.
Ms. Josephine Habba, Director General of the Benue State Commission for Peace and Reconciliation, described the peace accord as a milestone towards sustainable peace and development. She noted that the project fosters entrepreneurship and peaceful coexistence, marking a successful climate action initiative.
Community members, including Ada Agatu Godwin Onah, Chief Zaki Gwaza, and Toundo Japhet, expressed their gratitude to International Alert for resolving their crisis and providing them with valuable skills and resources. They acknowledged the positive impact of the peace accord on their relationships and daily lives.