By Ijeoma Obioma in Makurdi.
The Governor of Benue State, Hyacinth Alia, has hosted a delegation from the Nigerian Air Force, as well as representatives of Ugondo and Mbaivur communities in a bid to peacefully resolve the lingering land dispute between them.
Governor Alia,during the meeting, said he was pleased to host the warring factions, stating that peacefully resolving the long standing dispute around the area will attract more federal government presence, thereby bringing more development to the state.
While appreciating the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, for his efforts to ensure the long standing dispute is resolved, the governor reiterated his administration’s readiness to continue to press and ensure that more developmental projects are brought to the state.
Governor Alia, who moved straight from the venue of the meeting and visited the area, promised to construct a road around the area that will link up to the borders of Makurdi and Gwer-East, and up to the Gwer-East boundary with Gboko Local government, in order to make the community more accessible and also for the road to serve as permanent boundary between the natives and the Air force.
Earlier in his address, the leader of the delegation and the Air Officer Commanding Tactical Air Command, Nigerian Airforce, Makurdi, AVM F O Edahosa, said the meeting became necessary, especially that similar efforts were made in the past to resolve the land dispute, to no avail.
He said the Chief of Air Staff has also shown interest in the resolution of the case, considering how strategic Benue is, and is willing to ensure that the dispute is amicably resolved.
He appreciated governor Alia for his tireless efforts and desire to ensure peace in the state, pointing to some of the meetings the governor has held with different security heads in the country since he assumed office.
Responding, the Mue Ter Ugondo, Chief Clement Kurugh, as well as Amir Ishor, the representative of the Ter Makurdi, all appreciated the governor and the Chief of Air Staff for wading into the existing land demarcation dispute, saying they trust the governor’s efforts to resolve the issue and bring a lasting solution.
They all prayed to God to continue to give the governor the wisdom to continue piloting the affairs of the state.
Edited by Dawud Ahmed
