In a renewed push to curb insecurity in their border communities, the governors of Taraba and Benue States, Dr Agbu Kefas and Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, respectively, have held a strategic peace meeting in Wukari, the Taraba State capital.
The high-level engagement, attended by senior government officials and critical stakeholders from both states, focused on practical steps to end the persistent crisis affecting communities in southern Taraba and parts of Benue.
Governor Alia, who led the Benue delegates to the security parley, first paid a courtesy visit to the Aku Uka and chairman of the Taraba State Council of Chiefs, His Royal Majesty, Dr Ishaku Adda Ali.
During the visit, he briefed the monarch on the purpose of the joint mission and stressed the need for stronger collaboration between the state governments and traditional institutions to sustain the initiatives.
According to Governor Alia, sustainable peace can only be achieved through synergy, dialogue and a shared commitment to resolving the root causes of conflict.
He noted that traditional rulers play a pivotal role in mediating disputes and fostering reconciliation at the grassroots level.
Governor Kefas, in his response, reaffirmed his administration’s determination to restore normalcy in the affected communities.
He described the joint meeting as a bold step towards reinforcing inter-state cooperation and tackling insecurity through unified action.
As part of their engagement, the two governors visited Abako and Chanchanji communities, where they met with internally displaced persons (IDPs).
They assured them of improved security arrangements, continued humanitarian support and facilitation of their safe return home.
The meeting signalled a strengthened partnership between Taraba and Benue, with both leaders pledging sustained collaboration to ensure peace, stability and development across their shared communities.
