In a move to end years of bloodshed, farmers and herders from six rural communities in Bokkos and Riyom Local Government Areas of Plateau State have formalised 25 peace agreements designed to restore calm and rebuild mutual trust.
The deals were signed by representatives, both men and women, from Sha, Bum and Sopp communities, areas that have repeatedly witnessed deadly clashes and extensive destruction of property.
The agreements emerged after a series of dialogue and reconciliation meetings organised by the Institute for Integrated Transitions as part of broader efforts to promote unity and secure lasting peace in conflict affected rural areas.
Lazaros David, a senior district head from Bokkos Local Government Area who took part in the process, described the initiative as both timely and necessary in light of the serious challenges confronting the communities.
He said the facilitators were able to unite residents at the grassroots level through consistent and sustained engagement.
“They followed the programme time after time to ensure its success. They identified our problems and discussed them together with us,” he said.
David expressed optimism that the resolutions would be carried out faithfully, noting that community leaders plan to use gatherings in churches and mosques to reinforce the peace message.
“Where you often see your people, we’ll make sure this peace holds,” he added.
Another participant, Chiroma Haruna Idris, said the effort would significantly help to rebuild stability and harmony between farmers and herders.
“Our coming here has helped us understand the challenges, and we’re confident that what we’ve learned will assist us in addressing our common concerns peacefully without further disruption and confusion,” Idris said, adding that the agreements would address longstanding grievances between the groups.
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