In a resolute stand against the cycle of violence in Plateau State, Northern governors have emphatically cautioned against reprisal attacks as a solution, asserting that it would only exacerbate the existing crisis.
In a meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Chairman of the Northern State Governors Forum, Inuwa Yahaya, urged stakeholders to engage in constructive dialogue to address the root causes of the clashes and foster enduring peace on the Plateau.
Governor Yahaya emphasized that the aftermath of tragic incidents should prioritize the well-being of survivors rather than planning retaliatory actions. Citing historical evidence, he pointed out that reprisals have never served to alleviate tensions and, therefore, discouraged both communities from taking such a destructive path again.
“Despite the longstanding nature of this issue, it is time for stakeholders to convene a roundtable, speak the truth, and take deliberate steps toward mutual understanding,” Governor Yahaya asserted. He identified farmer-herder clashes and the indigene-settler dichotomy as contributing factors and emphasized the importance of unity, stating, “We are one family, and there is no progress in a nation that does not welcome visitors.”
Expressing condolences to those who lost loved ones, Governor Yahaya stressed the futility of reprisal attacks, urging a focus on understanding and empathy. He praised President Tinubu for dispatching Vice President Kashim Shettima to gather details of incidents in Kaduna and Plateau States, commending the President’s commitment to preventing future occurrences and supporting survivors.
In a call for increased collaboration between federal and state governments, Governor Yahaya highlighted the necessity of unity for national development. He acknowledged previous engagements on healthcare and business environment reforms and stressed that economic growth is pivotal for overall progress.
Touching on agriculture’s significance, Governor Yahaya emphasized the need for farmers to embrace modern techniques to enhance production. He revealed Gombe State’s approval to be part of Special Agric Processing zones, emphasizing the importance of states working together with the federal government to achieve collective goals for Nigeria’s development.
