L-R: The Aku-Uka of Wukari, Ishaku Adda Ali; Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia; Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas and the Tor Tiv, Prof. James Ayatse, during a high-level security and peace meeting in Wukari.
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas and Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia on Monday held a high-level security and peace meeting in Wukari, as part of renewed efforts to end persistent violence along the Benue–Taraba border.
The meeting, which also featured prominent traditional rulers including the Tor Tiv, James Ayatse, and the Aku-Uka of Wukari, Ishaku Adda Ali, focused on addressing the rising insecurity and humanitarian challenges affecting border communities.
According to findings by our correspondent, the talks were prompted by recent attacks and destruction of property in parts of southern Taraba, particularly in Takum, Donga, Ussa, and Wukari.
The violence, allegedly carried out by suspected armed herders, has led to widespread displacement and loss of livelihoods.
Although the main meeting took place in Wukari, the two governors and traditional leaders later visited Abako and Chanchaji, settlements located along the Benue–Taraba boundary. The delegation inspected camps and public facilities sheltering internally displaced persons (IDPs) who had fled their homes due to ongoing attacks.
Many of the displaced residents were found living in difficult conditions, after being forced out of their communities by armed groups.
Renewed Commitment to Peace
In their separate remarks, Governors Kefas and Alia said the meeting was aimed at strengthening cooperation between both states and renewing efforts to restore lasting peace in the troubled areas.
They stressed the need to eliminate criminal activities, enable displaced farmers to return safely to their ancestral lands, and revive agricultural activities across the border communities.
Governor Alia, who led the Benue delegation, explained that the visit was intended to promote synergy between the two state governments and traditional institutions.
He said lasting peace can only be achieved through collective responsibility, dialogue, and mutual understanding among the people.
The Benue governor further emphasized the vital role of traditional rulers in conflict resolution, noting that local leaders remain key to peacebuilding at the grassroots.
Upon his arrival in Wukari, Governor Alia paid a courtesy visit to the Aku-Uka, who also serves as Chairman of the Taraba State Council of Chiefs. During the visit, the Tor Tiv highlighted the plight of Tiv communities living within the Wukari traditional domain.
The interaction, according to sources, focused on promoting harmony among ethnic groups and finding long-term solutions to communal tensions.
In his response, Governor Kefas reaffirmed his administration’s determination to restore security in affected areas, describing the joint engagement as evidence of both states’ shared resolve.
He assured residents that his government, in collaboration with Benue State, would intensify security operations, distribute relief materials, and provide sustained support to facilitate the safe return of displaced persons.
Both governors also pledged continued engagement with security agencies, traditional rulers, and community leaders to prevent further violence.
The joint visit forms part of wider efforts by the Taraba and Benue governments to promote unity, deepen inter-state cooperation, and build lasting peace along their common border.
Officials expressed optimism that sustained dialogue and coordinated action would help stabilize the region and restore normalcy to affected communities.
