By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Iormem Alia, on Wednesday, hosted a delegation from the Nigerian Airforce, and the representatives of Ugondo and Mbaivur communities to deliberate on how to peacefully resolve the lingering land dispute between the Nigerian Airforce and the host communities.
Governor Alia who expressed his pleasure for the opportunity to host the warring factions, stated that peacefully resolving the long standing dispute around the area will attract more federal government presence, thereby bringing more development to the state.
He appreciated the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, for his efforts to ensure the long standing dispute is resolved and reiterated his administration’s readiness to continue to press and ensure that more developmental projects are brought to the state.
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.
The governor then visited the areas in dispute where he promised to construct a road around the area that will link up to the borders of Makurdi and Gwer-West and up to the Gwer-East boundary with Gboko Local government, in order to make the communities more accessible and also for the road to serve as permanent boundary between the Air Force and communities.
