The Tiv Traditional Council, on Monday, facilitated peace between Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume.
The previously close political allies had been embroiled in a disagreement over the political leadership of the North Central state.
The disagreement intensified with the recent establishment of a rival All Progressives Congress State Executive Council by the governor, prompting the police to intervene and take over the APC state headquarters to prevent violence.
Concerned about the escalating crisis, the Tiv paramount ruler, Prof James Ayatse, and the TTC invited the two to address their differences.
The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the TTC conducted a private meeting with the two leaders in Gboko, the Tiv race headquarters, in an effort to resolve their differences.
Ayatse, while briefing reporters on the outcome of the meeting, mentioned that the two agreed to reconcile.
He stated, "The two leaders have agreed to set aside their political disagreements and collaborate for the advancement of Benue.
"Today, I contacted the Governor of Benue, Rev Fr Alia, and the SGF, Sen George Akume, to speak with them due to reports of conflicts between them.
"We have spoken with them. They have shared their concerns with us. We deliberated on the matters and reached mutual agreement.
"They agreed to put their differences aside and work together as a team for the benefit of the people.
"So, all past differences have been set aside, and now we have a fresh start. We will work together in unity, cooperation, and harmony for the progress and development of Benue.
"The leaders have pledged to uphold their word and ensure peace and unity between them moving forward.
He mentioned that the SGF and the governor recognized the seriousness of making a commitment before the leaders of the land and will honor their promises.
"Yes, they made a commitment. They shook hands and embraced one another. They have vowed to work as a team.
"We are pleased with the resolutions they reached on their own, and we believe they have demonstrated dedication. We are their elders in the land; our blessings hold significance in their actions.
"Therefore, making such a commitment in the presence of the traditional rulers of the land carries great weight. We trust that they will adhere to the agreements we have reached today," he said.
NAN reports that while Sen Barnabas Gemade served as Alia’s witness during the reconciliation meeting, Michael Aondoakaa, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria, was Akume's witness.
The two officials – the SGF and the Governor – however, declined to speak with the press after the meeting.
NAN
