In a renewed push to stem insecurity and restore stability in troubled border communities, governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State and governor Hyacinth Alia of Benue State have assured displaced residents in southern Taraba of a strengthened security presence, immediate relief assistance, and sustained government support to facilitate their safe return to their ancestral homes.
The pledge was made on Monday during a high level peace meeting held at the Wukari local government council.
The engagement was convened to chart lasting solutions to the protracted crisis that has unsettled several communities in the southern axis of Taraba State.
The meeting which brought together senior government officials, security heads, and traditional rulers from both states, underscored what observers described as a decisive step toward rebuilding trust and reinforcing cross border cooperation.
Addressing participants, Governor Alia explained that he led the Benue delegation to strengthen collaboration with the Taraba state government and traditional institutions in a bid to end the lingering unrest.
“Lasting peace can only be achieved through collective efforts and mutual understanding between our states,” Alia declared.
He emphasized the indispensable role of traditional rulers in conflict resolution and grassroots peacebuilding, noting that enduring stability must be rooted in institutions that command the confidence of local communities.
Also speaking, Governor Kefas reiterated his administration’s firm commitment to restoring calm across affected areas. He described the joint session as a powerful demonstration of political will and shared resolve by both governments to confront insecurity head-on.
The duo who also stormed Abako and Chanchanji where displaced persons are presently taking refuge, reassured the IDPs of enhanced security deployment, prompt delivery of relief materials, and continued humanitarian intervention to enable a safe and dignified return to their homes.
Officials who spoke with our reporter said, the visit forms part of broader efforts to promote unity, deepen inter state collaboration, and entrench sustainable peace in volatile border communities.