News

CAN Condemns Resurgence of Mindless Killings in Plateau State

Published

2 years ago

May 22, 2023

Joel AjayiPresident, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) Archbishop Daniel Okoh on Monday condemned the recent resurgence of mindless killings of innocent citizens in Mangu and Riyom Local Government Areas of Plateau State, Nigeria.

In a statement he personally signed in Abuja, the CAN President, called on government and law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators of these heinous acts to justice and to ensure the protection of lives and properties of all citizens.
According to the statement, It is with deep concern that I address the nation on the recent resurgence of mindless killings of innocent citizens in Mangu and Riyom Local Government Areas of Plateau State, Nigeria.

“The killings which started in Mangu villages on Monday, 15th May 2023, by so-called unknown gunmen have claimed many lives and properties with many persons still missing. The villages affected include Fungzai, Hale, Kubwat, Bwoi and many other communities of Kombun District of Mangu Local Government Area and some communities in Riyom Local Government Area. According to reports, about 130 people were killed, about 1000 buildings were burnt, and about 22 villages were affected.

“We condemn these barbaric acts in the strongest terms possible. It is disheartening to see innocent citizens being killed and their properties destroyed in such a gruesome manner.

“While we appreciate the efforts of the security forces to maintain peace, we call on the government and law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators of these heinous acts to justice and to ensure the protection of lives and properties of all citizens.

“As a religious leader, I implore all parties involved to embrace peace and dialogue as a means of resolving their differences. Violence only begets more violence and we must break this cycle if we are to build a peaceful and prosperous society.

“It is important to emphasize that the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) unequivocally opposes any form of violence or reprisal as we strive to advance the well-being of all individuals, regardless of their religious or ethnic background.

“Finally, let me appeal to all Nigerians in Mangu and Riyom Local Government Areas and indeed, all over the country, to remain calm and law-abiding in the face of these challenges. We must not allow ourselves to be provoked into taking actions that will further escalate the situation.

“Let us all work together towards building a peaceful and prosperous society where all citizens can live in dignity and security.”

Share on Facebook

News

Boundary Commission Rolls Out 2025 Strategic Plan For Boundaries Resolution For Economic Prosperity

Published

17 hours ago

December 21, 2024

The Gleamer

Joel Ajayi

National Boundary Commission NBC has outlined its strategic priorities for disputed areas in 2025, focusing more on boundary resolution that it believes will bring economic prosperity and promote peaceful coexistence, as well as to drive sustainable development across Nigeria’s boundary regions.

The plan includes deployments of drones, advanced geospatial technologies, Expand Public Awareness Campaigns, Strengthen Grassroots Conflict Resolution Mechanisms mapping tools to improve accuracy and efficiency in boundary management in the country for the coming year.

The Director-General of the commission, Mr Adamu Adaji, who was represented by Dr the Director of Internal Boundaries Dr Bulus Emmanuel, at the 2024 end of year media briefing in Abuja, said that the commission had partnered with key organisations to enhance technology integration in boundary management.

He stated that boundaries are instruments of unity, growth, and development to build bridges of cooperation, ensuring peaceful coexistence, as well as means of unlocking the full potential of nation and region.

While rolling out vision for the year ahead, Adaji expressed; “As we look forward to the future, the NBC is committed to expanding its impact and ensuring sustainable management of Nigeria’s boundaries. Our strategic goals for 2025 include:

“Accelerate the Resolution of Boundary Disputes: Strengthen collaborations with state governments, traditional rulers, and community stakeholders to expedite dispute resolution and foster lasting peace.

“Expand Public Awareness Campaigns: Roll out nationwide sensitization programs to educate citizens on the importance of boundaries in fostering unity and national development.

“Strengthen Grassroots Conflict Resolution Mechanisms: Equip local leaders and boundary communities with tools for resolving conflicts amicably and sustainably.

“Enhance Technological Integration: Invest in advanced geospatial technologies, drones, and mapping tools to improve accuracy and efficiency.

“Promote Regional and International Cooperation: Advance cross-border agreements to enhance security, stimulate trade, and foster regional integration under the AfCFTA.

“Bolster Capacity Building Initiatives: Organize specialized training sessions on maritime law, conflict resolution, and boundary management.

“Operationalize the Extended Continental Shelf: Develop a roadmap for sustainable exploitation of maritime resources in compliance with international laws.

“Strengthen Data Management Systems: Collaborate with NASRDARMFAC (REVENUE MODEL) and other agencies for a harmonized geospatial database amongst others.

He used the occasion to reflect on NBCs achievements; ” The National Boundary Commission (NBC) remains steadfast in its mandate to resolve boundary disputes, promote peaceful coexistence, and drive sustainable development across Nigeria’s boundary regions.

“The resolution of interstate boundary disputes remained a top priority for the NBC and in 2024, we made significant strides in the following areas: Interstate Boundary Department: Boundary Delimitation and Demarcation,

“The Anambra/Enugu Boundary disputes saw the introduction of an innovative and dynamic approach otherwise known as the “Anambra/Enugu Home grown Formula,” being introduced to resolve the interstate dispute between the sister states leveraging local engagement and political will to advance the demarcation process.

“Benue/Nasarawa Boundary: We successfully revived stalled pillar emplacement projects by harmonizing historical records and facilitating renewed dialogue between stakeholders.

“Kebbi/Niger Boundary: Technical committees were established to evaluate historical documents and execute boundary tracing setting the stage for peaceful resolutions.

“Field and Technical Exercises: Our team conducted extensive verification and alignment exercises on boundaries including Gombe/Taraba, FCT/Nasarawa, the Enugu/Kogi and determination of the Ekiti/Ondo/Osun tripartite point.

“These efforts demonstrate our commitment to ensuring accuracy, fairness, and peaceful coexistence along Nigeria’s interstate boundaries.

NBC also recorded successes in International Boundaries resolution as the Nigeria-Benin International Boundary, Nigeria-Niger International Boundary, Nigeria-Cameroon International Boundary and Community Resettlement Projects were carried out with great success.

Speaking on the Challenges Adaji said, despite these successes, challenges such as limited resources, insecurity in certain regions, and stakeholder resistance continues to pose huddles.

He commended the Federal Government, State governments, traditional rulers, development partners, and our border communities for their unwavering support as well as the Media for their unwavering support and for playing a critical role in disseminating accurate information and fostering.

He assured that, the NBC remains steadfast in its mandate to resolve boundary disputes, promote peaceful coexistence, and drive sustainable development across Nigeria’s boundary regions

Share on Facebook