…Constitutes Conflict Management Support Group in 3 LGAs to Scale Up Advocacy

By Femi Bolaji

Renowned preacher and peace advocate, Rev. Gideon Para-Mallam, has called for collective efforts to address deep-seated ethnic and religious divisions in Taraba State and across the nation.

Speaking at a community engagement involving religious, traditional, political, and women’s groups from Wukari, Takum, and Ussa local government areas (LGAs) of Taraba State, Rev. Para-Mallam expressed concern over the destructive impact of entrenched prejudices on unity and development.

He emphasized that Taraba has suffered significantly from these divisions and urged stakeholders to take proactive steps toward reconciliation and healing.

“The three identified triggers of conflict, based on our assessment in these LGAs, are religion, interethnic tensions, and chieftaincy disputes,” he said.

Rev. Para-Mallam explained that the Gideon-Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation is spearheading efforts to bring stakeholders together to bridge divides and promote harmony for the benefit of the communities involved.

“Ours is to spread the message of peace and ensure that all stakeholders in these LGAs take ownership of this initiative and pass it down to their community members,” he added.

To reinforce this initiative, Rev. Para-Mallam announced the establishment of Conflict Management Support Groups in Wukari, Takum, and Ussa LGAs. These groups will scale up advocacy and address triggers of conflict at the grassroots level.

He also revealed plans to expand Project Zamanlafiya Taraba to other LGAs, ensuring that each senatorial zone in the state benefits from the conflict resolution initiative.

The initiative aims to empower communities to resolve disputes amicably, fostering lasting peace and mutual understanding among diverse groups in Taraba State.