A peacefully end to the lingering land dispute between the Nigerian Airforce and its host communities in Benue State may be close.
This indication emerged on Wednesday as the Executive Governor of Benue State, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia hosted a delegation from the Nigerian Airforce, and representatives of Ugondo and Mbaivur communities.
In his address during the meeting, Governor Alia 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.
Alia, who moved straight from the venue of the meeting to visit the area, promised to construct a road around the area that will link up to the borders of Makurdi and Gwer-West up to the Gwer-West boundary with Gboko Local government.
According to the Governor in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Terso Kula, the road will make the community more accessible while also serving 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.