Ayikwu Egbira Group urges Gov Sule to suspend plans to return displaced Bassas to Toto LG until conditions are met
By Our Correspondent, Nasarawa
The National Egbira Youth Association, an umbrella organization of Egbira youths in Nigeria known as Ayikwu Egbira Onobihun, has urged the Nasarawa State Government to suspend plans to relocate the Bassa community to Toto LGA of the State.
The appeal was made through a communique released to Journalists at Abdullahi Adamu Youth Center, Toto LGA on Saturday.
Prince Hamisu Omaki, National Vice President of the Association, on behalf of Ayikwu Egbira Onobihun, addressed the press, presenting the communique, which stated that the forum’s resolution, following their meeting on Friday, 13th December 2024, is to respect and acknowledge Governor Abdullahi Sule’s developmental strides and efforts in the State.
Omaki noted that the forum advised the Governor to involve the youth in decision-making processes regarding sensitive matters, such as the return of the Bassa community to Egbiraland.
“We, the Ayikwu Egbira Onobihu (National) of Egbira Community, hereby express our strong objections and concerns regarding the proposed hasty return of Bassa Komu to Egbira land by the Governor of Nasarawa State.”
“This decision has stirred up deep-seated tensions and poses a significant threat to peace and stability in our communities, considering the ongoing communal crisis that has plagued our region for ages”
“The historical context and intricacies of the Bassa Kwomu situation cannot be overlooked, the unresolved disputes and animosity between the Egbira and Bassa Kwomu communities have resulted in violence, loss of lives and the displacement of countless families”
“Rushing the return of Bassa Kwomu without addressing the root causes and ensuring the safety and security of all parties involved is a reckless move that could reignite the flames of conflict” the Association said.
“The Egbira communities in Toto Local Government have suffered numerous attacks, resulting in significant casualties, including the loss of a District Head from the following communities: katakpa, Aggeh, Shege, kuwa, and Ugya, among others. Notably, the Governor of Nasarawa State has never visited the scene or sent a delegation to console the victims or their representatives.”
The Ayikwu Egbira Onobihu (National) of Egbira Community, requested that the Governor of Nasarawa State reconsider this decision and focus on peacebuilding initiatives that incorporate youth, rather than rushing into actions that tend to occur when elections are nearing.
“It is crucial to involve all relevant stakeholders, including community leaders, traditional rulers, and, most importantly, youth representatives, in open dialogue and consultation to map out a sustainable path towards reconciliation and lasting peace.”
The Egbira Youths urged the Governor to take decisive action in addressing the underlying issues driving the communal crisis, including land disputes, resource allocation, and socio-political marginalization, emphasizing that sustainable peace can only be achieved through justice, equity, and inclusive governance that addresses the legitimate concerns of all parties involved.
The group commended Toto stakeholders for convening an expanded security meeting aimed at achieving a positive resolution, stating that youth are committed to engaging constructively with all stakeholders to foster a peaceful and harmonious coexistence in Toto Local Government and beyond.
