A Roman Catholic priest, Very Rev. Father Simon Akuraga, has expressed concern over the deteriorating relations between the various ethnic groups in Taraba State, particularly between the Tiv and Jukun.

Speaking during the Silver Jubilee celebration of the Tiv traditional leadership in Bali local government council at the weekend, he expressed deep concern over the increasing tensions that have led to lose of lives and destruction of property worth millions of naira.

In his paper titled ‘Exploring the Frontiers of Peace and Security by Tiv of Taraba State’, the the clergyman who recalled a time when the Tiv people lived harmoniously with other tribes in the state.

He attributed the worsening relationship between the Tiv and Jukun communities to events that occurred during the 1990s.

According to him, the inter-tribal conflict resulted in the displacement of people and long-term suffering, with many residents being confined to Internally Displaced Persons (IDP) camps.

While urging all parties involved in the conflict to prioritize peace and demonstrate love for one another, he
called for the formation of peace committees, positive parenting, youth engagement, and economic empowerment as strategies to restore and sustain harmony in the state.

“Peace is not just the absence of conflict but the presence of justice,” he emphasized.

The clergyman who also highlighted the urgency of extending olive branches to displaced persons, stressed the need for the relevant authorities to work round the clock to unite the various ethnic groups in the state.

“There is a need to extend our hands of fellowship to our displaced brethren both morally and physically. Faith-based organizations like the Catholic Church are doing their best, but the support of everyone is essential,” he said.

“The inability of people to return to their homes and access their farmland not only threatens our livelihood but also weakens our identity and unity as a people.”

He also cautioned journalists and social media influencers against spreading false information, urging them to leverage technology to foster development and promote peace and unity within the society.

Catholic priest raises alarm over deteriorating inter-tribal relations in Taraba