In a display of unwavering commitment to peaceful coexistence in the border communities of Cross River and Ebonyi States, the youth from both sister states came together to celebrate a 5-year truce. This milestone marks a significant step in resolving the long-standing boundary dispute, which has been a source of conflict and misunderstanding in the region.
The history of the border dispute between Cross River and Ebonyi States spans several years, marked by clashes resulting in loss of lives and valuable property. However, the recent celebration signifies a turning point in the efforts to foster harmony and understanding in the area.
Addressing the gathering, Barrister Paschal Nwenyi, President of Cross River-Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement, expressed profound joy at the occasion. He emphasized the importance of collaborating with community-based peace structures and critical stakeholders to develop effective conflict early warning response systems. This proactive approach aims to prevent conflicts and promote sustainable peace in both states and Nigeria at large.
Nwenyi highlighted the upcoming formal inauguration of a Community-Based Early Warning-Early Response System (CB-CEWERS) by the Institute of Peace and Conflict Resolution. This system, comprising members of the Cross River-Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement (CREBYPDM), is a significant milestone in maintaining peace and averting potential conflicts.
Underlining the significance of the event, Nwenyi stressed the need to prioritize peaceful resolutions over resorting to violence in disputes over land. He underscored the importance of using the land for sustenance and promoting dialogue as a means to resolve differences.
The systematic approach adopted by the youth from the two states, in conjunction with stakeholders, signifies a strategic effort to restore lost peace. The inaugural ceremony of the 5-year truce is expected to facilitate collaborative negotiations, multi-stakeholder engagement, and consensus-building, aligning diverse interests towards a common goal of unity.
Nwenyi commended the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja, for its role in supporting the objectives of the Cross River and Ebonyi Youth Peace Development Movement (CREBYPDM) and promoting peace-building initiatives. Furthermore, he acknowledged the contributions of Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu, Ebonyi State Governor Chief Francis Nwifuru, their deputies, and government functionaries in sustaining peace along the border.
The traditional rulers, the clergy, and all citizens of both states, particularly those from the areas affected by conflict, were also lauded for their role in upholding peace over the past five years. The event was marked by the presentation of goodwill messages from stakeholders of both states and a captivating cultural troupe performance.
His Royal Highness Eze Oketa Sunday, the traditional ruler from Ebonyi State where the celebration took place, expressed profound joy at the prevailing peace between the two states.
The commemoration of the 5-year truce stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, dialogue, and perseverance in the pursuit of peace, setting an inspiring example for communities facing similar challenges worldwide.
