The youths of Cross River and Ebonyi States have come together to celebrate five years of peace, showcasing their unwavering commitment to harmonious living in their border communities. This remarkable milestone marks a significant truce in a longstanding boundary dispute that has plagued the two sister states for several years.
The history of the boundary conflict between Cross River and Ebonyi States is marred by clashes that resulted in the loss of lives and destruction of valuable property. However, the recent celebration of the 5-year truce signifies a beacon of hope and reconciliation for the once embattled regions.
Barrister Paschal Nwenyi, President of Cross River-Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement, expressed profound joy during the event. He emphasized the collaborative efforts with community-based peace structures and key stakeholders to proactively develop effective conflict early warning response systems. The ultimate aim is to prevent conflicts and promote peace not only within the two sister states but also across Nigeria as a whole.
Nwenyi highlighted the forthcoming formal inauguration of a Community-Based Early Warning-Early Response System (CB-CEWERS) by the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution. This system, consisting of members from the Cross River-Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement (CREBYPDM), is set to play a pivotal role in averting potential conflicts and maintaining sustained peace in the region.
In a poignant reflection on the significance of the truce, Nwenyi called for a collective mindset focused on utilizing the land for sustenance and coexistence, rather than resorting to violence and destruction. He urged for peaceful dialogue and resolutions, emphasizing the need to embrace peaceful options instead of taking the law into one’s own hands.
The recent inaugural ceremony not only commemorated the 5-year truce but also marked the introduction of a systematic approach by the youth and stakeholders to reclaim lost peace. Nwenyi emphasized the importance of collaborative negotiations, multi-stakeholder engagement, and consensus-building to align diverse interests towards a common goal of sustained peace in the region.
Acknowledging the pivotal role of various parties in fostering peace, Nwenyi commended the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, as well as the governors of Cross River and Ebonyi States, for their unwavering support towards peace-building initiatives. He also extended his appreciation to the traditional rulers, clergy, and citizens of both states, especially those from the war-affected areas, for their commitment to upholding peace over the past five years.
The celebratory event featured captivating cultural performances and the presentation of goodwill messages by stakeholders from both states. The palpable sense of joy and unity was further echoed by His Royal Highness Eze Oketa Sunday, the traditional ruler from Ebonyi State, who expressed profound delight at the development of peace between the two states.
The celebration of the 5-year truce serves as a resounding testament to the power of reconciliation and collaboration, laying a strong foundation for sustained peace and coexistence between the border communities of Cross River and Ebonyi States.