The recent episode of brutal killings in Jos, Benue, Taraba States and other parts of the country is a sign of fragile peace and weak government in Nigeria. The unimaginable destruction of lives and property keep resurfacing when least expected. To quelling the incessant violence between the Fulani herdsmen and the Irigwe and Dong communities in Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, the COFP team visited the Local Government Area on a peace mission.
The team was received by the Local Government Chairperson-Mrs. Leah who welcomed and narrated the ugly incidents she has been experiencing since the inception of her office as the Local Government Chairperson of Bassa LGA. She assisted in mobilizing the Fulani and Irigwe communities for a one day town hall meeting.
Over 400 community members turned out for the meeting which was held with both parties to foster peace on April 19-20, 2018. Both parties add the opportunity of narrating clearly their grievances over the causes of the violence. The COFP team urged both sides to further hold intra community meetings in order to dialogue and figure out possible ways of addressing their problems rather than fighting and killing one another. The COFP team promised to visit the Local Government from time to time to work together with them in finding lasting solution to their problem. The community members were advised once again to live peacefully with their Muslim and Christian brethren since violence will only worsen their situation.
