In a significant move to end the recurring cycle of violence along their shared borders, the governors of Taraba and Benue states have convened a high-level security summit in Wukari. Governors Agbu Kefas and Hyacinth Alia led a powerful delegation of top government officials, security chiefs, and prominent traditional rulers to hammer out a lasting solution to the unrest affecting their communities.
The diplomatic mission began with a symbolic visit by Governor Alia to the palace of the Aku Uka of Wukari, Ishaku Adda Ali. During the visit, the Benue State Governor emphasized that his presence in Taraba, backed by his full cabinet, was a clear signal of his administration’s readiness to collaborate. He noted that since both states share a border and face identical security threats, it is only through total synergy that they can truly protect the lives and properties of their people.
Governor Agbu Kefas, hosting the session, described this joint effort as a bold statement of their shared resolve to bring an end to the crisis once and for all. To ensure this wasn’t just another talk shop, the Governor announced the formation of a joint implementation committee. This body will be tasked with turning the resolutions reached in Wukari into actionable plans and providing the necessary follow-up to maintain peace.
The traditional institutions also played a central role in the discussions. The Tor Tiv, James Ayatse, spoke passionately about the need for dialogue and unity between the people of both states, urging everyone to prioritize peaceful coexistence over conflict. Echoing this sentiment, the Aku Uka expressed his optimism that this renewed political will would finally bring the long-awaited stability to the region.
Beyond the meeting rooms, the two governors took their message of hope directly to those most affected by the crisis. The leaders visited camps for internally displaced persons in Abako, Benue State, and Chanchanji in Taraba State. They stood among the displaced families, offering reassurances that security measures are being tightened to allow them a safe return to their ancestral homes.
The governors also promised that relief materials would be deployed immediately to help ease the current hardships faced by these communities. This joint visit served as a powerful reminder that the leadership of both states is now moving in lockstep to secure a more peaceful future for the border regions.
