In Taraba State, the age-old conflict between the Tiv and Hausa communities in Bali Local Government Council has finally been resolved through the relocation of the Tiv community to a new area.
Alhaji Abubakar Mahmoud, the traditional ruler of Jibu chiefdom, took the decision to relocate the Tiv community of Dugwer to a different section within the chiefdom.
This strategic move, as disclosed by Mahmoud in Taraba on Thursday, aims to put an end to the longstanding dispute between the Tiv and Hausa communities in the region.
Explaining the rationale behind the relocation, Mahmoud highlighted that it is part of a concerted effort to achieve a peaceful resolution outside of the judicial system and restore harmony in the area.
“The allocation of this new land is intended to facilitate a peaceful resolution of the land conflict, enabling the Tiv community to engage in their agricultural activities without any disruptions,” remarked Mahmoud.
It was noted by NewsNow that the conflict had previously gone to court but was later withdrawn to pave the way for a negotiated settlement.
The traditional ruler advised the Tiv community to be vigilant against individuals who may try to instigate further discord for personal gain.
Furthermore, he urged the Tiv leadership at the state level to ensure that grassroots leaders promote peaceful coexistence and collaboration with neighboring communities.
Expressing joy over the development, Aper Agera, the representative of the Tiv community, commended the monarch, council leadership, and state government for putting an end to the protracted conflict.
He did note, however, that the land previously occupied by the Tiv community spanned about 600 square kilometers, whereas the new land allocated to them is approximately 200 square kilometers in size.
Agera pointed out the inadequacy of the new land in meeting the needs of the Tiv community, emphasizing the necessity for additional land allocation in the new region.