President Bola Tinubu has sent his emissary, Dr Abiodun Essiet, to Plateau State as part of efforts to strengthen peace between Christian and Fulani groups. The assignment focuses on resolving tensions that have troubled communities across the state. Essiet arrived with a mandate to promote dialogue, rebuild trust, and support ongoing reconciliation work.
Meetings With Clerics and Traditional Leaders
Essiet started her visit with a series of meetings involving Christian clerics, Fulani Miyetti Allah leaders, and traditional authorities. The discussions explored practical ways to reduce tensions and encourage cooperation. Delegates from several local government areas joined the sessions to share their views on peacebuilding.
Focus on Community-Based Peace Structures
Stakeholders emphasised the importance of community peace structures. Participants from across Plateau State highlighted the value of grassroots monitoring groups that respond early to disputes and promote coexistence. These discussions contributed to a broader town hall meeting in Jos.
Visit to the Regional Church Council
Essiet met Rev Ezekiel Dachomo, Chairman of the Regional Church Council in Barkin Ladi. Their discussion explored the influence of faith-based leadership on unity and development. Dachomo remains a strong voice for Christian communities in Plateau, and the meeting offered an opportunity to exchange ideas on preventing conflict.
Support for Widows and Affected Families
During the visit, Essiet addressed widows who lost relatives in episodes of violence. She delivered the President’s message on reconciliation and highlighted the need for healing across all communities. The engagement also demonstrated the government’s interest in addressing emotional recovery.
Outreach to Fulani Leadership
Essiet later met Fulani Miyetti Allah leaders to encourage dialogue between pastoral and farming communities. The talks centred on land use, early warning mechanisms, and ways to stop mistrust. Participants agreed that structured engagement supports long-term stability.
Workshop for Seventeen Local Government Areas
A workshop was held in Jos for leaders from all seventeen local government areas. The session focused on designing a sustainable community peace structure. Participants discussed reporting channels, reconciliation procedures, and practical conflict prevention tools.
Closed-Door Dialogue in Bassa LGA
Essiet also held a closed-door meeting with the Irigwe community, the Miyetti Allah group, and youth representatives from Bassa LGA. They reviewed the progress of a seventeen-member peace committee that works to prevent clashes and encourage cooperation.
Reinforcing Federal Support for Peace
Throughout the visit, Essiet reaffirmed President Tinubu’s commitment to inclusive governance and lasting peace. She emphasized that the Community-Based Peace Structure remains a strategic tool for improving unity and strengthening dialogue in the North Central region.
The Broader Impact on Plateau Stability
The visit signals a renewed federal focus on conflict-prone regions. Because trust between groups remains fragile, continuous engagement plays a major role in reducing tensions. The approach also encourages participation from women, youth, and traditional authorities.
Momentum for Reconciliation
With renewed dialogue channels, Plateau communities expect improved cooperation. The involvement of both faith leaders and Fulani representatives provides a balanced approach that supports shared solutions. The initiative also encourages local actors to take responsibility for peace.
Roadmap for Long-Term Stability
The government aims to maintain the momentum gained from Essiet’s engagements. The emphasis on structured dialogue, training, and grassroots intervention aligns with ongoing national security goals. Many participants believe this approach offers a clear path toward lasting harmony.
