In a breakthrough for peacebuilding efforts in Taraba State, leaders of the Tiv and Fulani communities in Gassol Local Government Council have signed a peace accord to end the recurring clashes between the two ethnic groups.
The peace pact was formalised on Monday during a meeting held at the 6 Brigade Headquarters conference room in Jalingo, facilitated by the Commander of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, and Sector 3, Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa.
Describing the development as a “significant step toward lasting peace”, Uwa said the initiative falls under the brigade’s non-kinetic operations designed to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and community-based solutions to conflict.
The peace accord comes amid heightened tensions and long-standing disputes between the Tiv and Fulani populations in Gassol.
In response, the brigade invited key stakeholders, including the Gassol Local Government Chairman, Abubakar Usman, traditional rulers, elders, and security officials, to deliberate on ways to foster peaceful coexistence.
Condemning the persistent communal violence, Uwa urged community members to refrain from taking the law into their own hands, emphasising the importance of the rule of law and mutual respect.
He called on all participants to become ambassadors of peace, stressing that genuine development can only occur in a united and secure environment.
He also commended the LG chairman for his proactive role in mobilising support for the initiative and ensuring broad-based participation.
During the meeting, representatives from both the Tiv and Fulani communities agreed to renounce violence, reject the harbouring of criminal elements, and engage in open communication to resolve disputes.
They further pledged to cooperate with security agencies and share intelligence to forestall any potential outbreaks of violence.
Reacting to the outcome, Usman expressed satisfaction with the resolutions reached, praising the 6 Brigade for its unwavering commitment to peace in Gassol. He described the initiative as timely and crucial for rebuilding trust among the warring communities.
During the formal signing of the peace agreement, both sides reaffirmed their full commitment to implementing the resolutions and collaborating with authorities to ensure sustainable peace in the area.