In a remarkable display of commitment to peaceful coexistence, the youths of Cross River and Ebonyi States recently marked a milestone – the 5-year truce in their border communities. This celebration stands as a testament to their dedication to harmony and unity, setting a commendable example for both states and beyond.
The protracted boundary dispute between these two states, spanning several years, has been marred by clashes leading to the loss of lives and destruction of valuable property. However, the recent festivities symbolize a crucial shift towards stability and understanding in these historically embattled regions.
Barrister Paschal Nwenyi, the President of Cross River-Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement, expressed immense joy during the event. He emphasized the collaborative efforts with community-based peace structures and key stakeholders, envisioning a foundation for robust conflict early warning response systems. This progressive approach aims to not only prevent conflicts within the sister states but also across Nigeria at large.
Nwenyi also revealed plans for the formal inauguration of a Community-Based Early Warning-Early Response System (CB-CEWERS), comprising members of the Cross River-Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement (CREBYPDM). This pivotal step underscores their collective resolve to establish sustainable peace-building mechanisms.
Highlighting the significance of the truce’s milestone, Nwenyi eloquently articulated the purpose of the land as a means to sustain life, not to be a source of discord and violence. He emphasized the need for peaceful resolution of disputes, shunning the recourse to lawlessness and self-serving judgments.
Moreover, Nwenyi lauded the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja, for bolstering the objectives of the CREBYPDM and fortifying their peace-building endeavors. Furthermore, he extended appreciation to the respective Governors, Bassey Otu of Cross River State and Chief Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, along with their deputies and government officials for their contributions to nurturing border peace.
Acknowledging the invaluable support from traditional rulers, the clergy, and all citizens of both states, particularly those residing in areas affected by strife, Nwenyi commended their unwavering commitment to upholding peace over the past five years.
The celebration was not without its enchanting moments, as stakeholders from both states delivered messages of goodwill, and a captivating cultural troupe performance added vibrancy to the occasion.
Reflecting on the prevailing tranquility, His Royal Highness Eze Oketa Sunday, the traditional ruler from Ebonyi State where the celebration took place, expressed profound elation over the newfound peace between the two states.
This jubilant commemoration of the 5-year truce epitomizes the triumph of diplomacy and cooperation over discord, offering a beacon of hope for sustainable peace not just within the borders of Cross River and Ebonyi States, but also serving as an inspiring example globally.
