By Israel Adamu, Jos
In a renewed effort to achieve lasting peace in Agatu Local Government Area of Benue State, the Executive Chairman, Hon. James Melvin Ejeh, has convened a high-level stakeholders’ meeting focused on peacebuilding and security.
The meeting, held at the council secretariat in Obagaji, brought together representatives of traditional institutions, youth groups, security agencies, and several community-based organizations. Key groups in attendance included the Agatu Development Association (Makurdi and Otukpo branches), Agatu Elite Development Forum, Save Agatu Project, Agatu Youth Development Forum, Agatu Women Arise, and the Christian and Muslim communities in Agatu, among others.
In his opening remarks, Hon. Ejeh emphasized the importance of collective efforts in fostering peace. He explained that the summit aimed to provide a platform for stakeholders to share concerns, ideas, and recommendations to address the insecurity challenges in Agatu.
“The devastating consequences of war—loss of lives, revenue, and investments—make it imperative to embrace diplomacy as the most effective approach to resolving disputes,” he said.
The chairman highlighted the achievements of his administration, including the adoption of an Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR) approach, which enabled displaced persons in western Agatu to return to their ancestral homes. He stressed that ensuring the safety and security of all residents remains his administration’s top priority.
Hon. Ejeh also addressed the sensitive issue of Fulani herdsmen occupying land in Agatu, clarifying that no official permissions were granted for their settlement. He noted that many of the herders had settled voluntarily and called for cautious and diplomatic engagement on the matter.
He expressed gratitude to traditional leaders for their critical role in maintaining relative peace and lauded the support of Hon. Chief Pastor Ojotu Ojema, Member of the House of Representatives for Apa/Agatu Federal Constituency, and Hon. Sir John Ngbede, for their unwavering commitment to the peace initiative.
Stakeholders Endorse Peace Initiative
During the meeting, several stakeholders voiced their support for the chairman’s peace efforts.
- Agatu Youth Chairman, Oloche Silas, commended Hon. Ejeh’s relentless efforts and proposed forming a peace committee to ensure justice and sustained progress.
- Col. Odagbali (Rtd), Chairman of Agatu West Elders Forum, praised the chairman’s dialogue-driven approach and pledged full support for his administration.
- Matthew Efoga, President of the Agatu Development Association (Makurdi, Otukpo branches), and Hon. Justice Philip also endorsed the peace committee proposal, emphasizing the need to protect the interests of Agatu people.
Formation of a Peace Committee
In response to suggestions from stakeholders, Hon. Ejeh approved the establishment of a 23-member peace committee to guide the peace process. The committee will identify perpetrators of past crises and work towards resolving the longstanding conflict between farmers and herders in the local government.
The chairman urged all stakeholders to cooperate with the committee to ensure lasting peace and security in Agatu.
Recognition and Awards
During the meeting, the Agatu Youth Development Forum presented Hon. Melvin Ejeh with an award of excellence in recognition of his exceptional peacebuilding initiatives. The forum particularly commended his ADR approach, describing it as a transformative strategy for resolving conflicts in Agatu.
Call for Unity
Representatives from the council’s 10 wards and various groups pledged their support for the government’s peace and unity efforts. They lauded the chairman’s commitment to fostering a safer and more prosperous Agatu.
Hon. Ejeh also used the occasion to formally condole with the people of Abugbe community over a recent tragic incident that claimed two lives. He urged the community to embrace peace and coexist harmoniously.
The meeting concluded with a resolution to work collectively toward a peaceful and united Agatu Local Government Area.
