By Dada Ahmed in Lokoja.
In its continued effort to promote peaceful coexistence and prevent communal clashes, the Police Command Kogi State
has successfully initiated a peace and reconciliation meeting between the Itale and Ishi communities of Ibaji Local Government Area in the state.
CSP. William Ovye Aya
Police Public Relations Officer
Kogi State Police Command,disclosed this in a statement he signed in Lokoja on Monday and a copy made available to The Reporters.
He said the the Commissioner of Police, CP.Naziru Bello Kankarofi, convened the mediation following concerns that tensions over the ownership of a fishing pond and adjoining land might lead some youths from both communities to resort to violence, despite the matter being before the Upper Area Court, Idah.
According to CSP.Aya, the police command,acting in its role as a peace-making institution, brought both sides to the negotiation table, urging them to embrace dialogue and allow the court process to run its course.
He added that the meeting provided a platform for open communication, de-escalation of tension, and reaffirmation of long-standing community ties.
At the end of the engagement, he added,both communities agreed to maintain peace, avoid provocation, and refrain from any actions that could trigger hostilities while awaiting the court’s judgment.
The Police image maker emphasized that the doors of the police command remain open for community mediation, assuring residents of its commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and the protection of lives and property across the state.
