In a remarkable display of solidarity for peaceful coexistence, the youths of Cross River and Ebonyi States recently commemorated 5 years of truce. This celebration holds significant meaning as it marks the resolution of a longstanding border dispute, a testament to the power of collaboration and conflict resolution.
The historical enmity between the border communities of Cross River and Ebonyi States had led to tragic clashes, resulting in the loss of lives and destruction of valuable property. However, the recent celebration signifies a turning point, heralding an era of tranquility and cooperation.
Barrister Paschal Nwenyi, the President of the Cross River-Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement, conveyed his elation at the event. He emphasized the organization’s commitment to working in tandem with community-based peace structures and key stakeholders to establish an effective conflict early warning response system. This proactive approach aims to prevent conflicts and promote harmonious coexistence not only within the two states but throughout Nigeria as a whole.
Nwenyi highlighted the forthcoming inauguration of a Community-Based Early Warning-Early Response System (CB-CEWERS) by the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution. This pivotal initiative, comprising members of the Cross River-Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement (CREBYPDM), signifies a significant step towards sustaining peace and averting potential conflicts in the region.
The President’s poignant remarks underscored the paramount importance of safeguarding peace and prioritizing dialogue over discord. He urged all parties involved to relinquish violence and adopt peaceful avenues for conflict resolution, emphasizing the need to utilize their land for sustenance and prosperity rather than as a catalyst for strife.
Furthermore, Nwenyi articulated the strategic approach employed by the youths and stakeholders to restore peace, emphasizing the inauguration’s role in fostering collaborative negotiations, multi-stakeholder engagement, and consensus-building. These endeavors aim to align diverse interests towards a common goal of unity and tranquility.
Commendations were extended to the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja, for its unwavering support in fortifying the objectives of the Cross River and Ebonyi Youth Peace Development Movement (CREBYPDM). The pivotal contributions of Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State and his counterpart, Chief Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, were also acknowledged, alongside their deputies and government officials, for their tireless efforts in preserving border peace.
The commendable role played by traditional rulers, the clergy, and the citizens of both states, particularly those from the previously war-affected areas, in upholding peace over the past five years was lauded.
The event culminated in the presentation of goodwill messages by stakeholders from both states, accompanied by a captivating cultural troupe performance. The joyous sentiments expressed by His Royal Highness Eze Oketa Sunday, the traditional ruler from Ebonyi State, underscored the profound impact of peace within the region and the collective resolve to nurture harmonious coexistence.
This celebration serves as a beacon of hope and a testament to the transformative power of unity and dialogue. As Cross River and Ebonyi States embark on a new chapter of collaboration and concord, the commemoration of this 5-year truce stands as a testament to the triumph of peace over discord, offering a compelling example for communities facing similar challenges worldwide.