In a bold and commendable move to stem the tide of violence in Taraba State, the Nigerian Army has successfully brokered a landmark peace accord between the Fulani and Tiv communities in Gassol Local Government Area (LGA), marking a significant stride in its non-kinetic approach to national security and conflict resolution.
The peace dialogue—held on Monday, June 23, at the 6 Brigade Headquarters in Jalingo—was orchestrated under the leadership of the Commander 6 Brigade/Sector 3 Operation Whirl Stroke (OPWS), Brigadier General Kingsley Chidiebere Uwa. The effort comes amidst mounting tensions and deep-seated animosities that have plagued the region for years, often resulting in deadly clashes, displacement, and economic setbacks.
With the air heavy with expectations, key stakeholders gathered for what would become a historic event. Present at the high-stakes dialogue were the Chairman of Gassol LGA, Hon. Abubakar Usman, traditional rulers, respected elders, youth leaders, and security officials—all united by a shared desire to forge a new path of peace and reconciliation.
Brig. Gen. Uwa, addressing the assembly, delivered a stirring call for unity and justice, warning that the endless cycle of reprisal attacks was unsustainable and counterproductive.
> “No society can thrive in the absence of peace,” he asserted. “Security, economic growth, and social prosperity only flourish where there is mutual respect, rule of law, and unity.”
He emphasized that only the state holds the constitutional mandate to administer justice and cautioned the communities against resorting to self-help or shielding criminal actors. He lauded Chairman Abubakar Usman for his relentless leadership and commitment to community dialogue, noting that peace must be a shared responsibility rooted in trust, cooperation, and transparency.
After extensive and sometimes emotional discussions, both Fulani and Tiv representatives reached a consensus—to end hostilities, foster open lines of communication, and collaborate with authorities to weed out elements bent on sabotaging the fragile peace. The climax of the day was the signing of a formal peace accord—an emotional and symbolic gesture that brought visible relief and optimism to many present.
Speaking on behalf of the communities, Chairman Usman praised the Nigerian Army and specifically 6 Brigade under Brig. Gen. Uwa’s command for their tireless efforts in facilitating peace.
> “This is not just a document; it’s a new beginning,” he declared. “What we’ve witnessed today is the rebirth of hope for the people of Gassol LGA. The Army has shown that security goes beyond guns—it is about hearts, minds, and dialogue.”
Army officials hailed the peace pact as a critical victory for the military’s non-kinetic strategy—an approach that leverages engagement, dialogue, and partnership over brute force to resolve internal conflicts.
As the sun set over Jalingo, a renewed sense of hope hovered in the air. The peace accord may not erase years of mistrust overnight, but it stands as a powerful testament to what is possible when dialogue replaces violence, and when unity is chosen over division.
PIONEER NEWS 