In a remarkable display of their unwavering commitment to peaceful coexistence, the youth of Cross River and Ebonyi States have joyously celebrated 5 years of harmonious truce. This milestone marks a significant turning point in the longstanding border dispute between these two sister states, which has spanned numerous years and witnessed the unfortunate loss of lives and destruction of valuable properties due to misunderstandings and conflicts within their border communities.
Addressing the gathering, Barrister Paschal Nwenyi, the President of Cross River – Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement, expressed profound elation at the occasion. He outlined the primary objective of collaborating with community-based peace structures and critical stakeholders to develop an effective conflict early warning response. This collaborative effort aims to prevent conflicts and foster sustainable peace in the two sister states and Nigeria at large.
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, comprising members of the Cross River – Ebonyi Youths Peace Development Movement (CREBYPDM), is poised to play a pivotal role in maintaining lasting peace in the region.
Underlining the significance of the event, Nwenyi underscored the importance of peaceful resolution, stressing the need to bring all grievances to the table for amicable settlements rather than resorting to violence. He emphasized the youth’s determination to restore peace through a systematic approach, in collaboration with stakeholders.
Furthermore, the president emphasized that the inaugural ceremony of the 5-year truce would facilitate inclusive negotiations, multi-stakeholder engagement, and consensus-building, essential for aligning diverse interests towards a common goal of peace and harmony.
Commendations were extended to the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution, Abuja, for its unwavering commitment to strengthening the objectives of the Cross River and Ebonyi Youth Peace Development Movement (CREBYPDM) through its peace-building initiatives. Additionally, accolades were bestowed upon Governor Bassey Otu of Cross River State, Chief Francis Nwifuru of Ebonyi State, their deputies, and government functionaries for their collective efforts in sustaining peace along the border.
The efforts of traditional rulers, clergy, and all citizens of both states, particularly those from the war-affected areas, were also lauded for upholding peace in their communities over the past five years.
The occasion was adorned with goodwill messages from stakeholders of both states and a captivating cultural troupe performance. Expressing his delight, His Royal Highness Eze Oketa Sunday, the traditional ruler from Ebonyi State where the celebration was held, exuded joy over the progress towards peace between the two states.
