● Holds expanded stakeholders security meeting.
The Chairman, Toto Local Government Council, Pharm. Ahmed Baba Yahaya has called on the people to co-exist peacefully and tolerate one another irrespective of their affiliations as displaced Bassa people are set to return home Monday 10th February, 2025.
The Chairman made the call during an expanded stakeholders security meeting held in the area ahead of the return of the Bassa people to Toto LGA.
He said that the meeting was in line with Gov. Abdullahi Sule peace initiative for Bassa and other displaced people to return home after years of crisis that moved them out of the area.
The Council boss said that the meeting was also to inform the critical stakeholders about the development and who will in turn pass the message to their subjects and members of their communities on the planned return of the Bassa people scheduled for Monday 10th February, 2025.
Pharm. Yahaya said that the importance of peace to human and societal development could not be overemphasized.
He added that peace is priceless and non negotiable “we must embrace ourselves and tolerate one another.
” As Bassa and other displaced people will be returning to their communities.
” For us to achieve speedy development in Toto, we must forget our differences and embrace forgiveness, peace and tolerance,” he said.
He disclosed that the returnees are to be temporary camped in Ugya for onward movement to their respective villages.
Yahaya said that adequate security measures and other arrangements are being put in place for their safety and successful return.
On the increasing influx of fulanis herders and other persons into the local government area, the chairman charged the paramount rulers, village Heads and the leaders of the fulanis to be vigilant and ensure that such immigrants are thoroughly scrutinized.
“And necessary documentation are made before they are allowed to settle down in their respective communities for peace to reign.
He, however, said that the council will take decisive measures against any body found wanting in Toto LGA.
Yahaya commended the efforts of the security personnel for their commitment to their duties towards the protection of lives and properties in the area.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary Humanitarian Affairs and that of Security Nasarawa State Alh. Usman Hussaini and Alh. Maikeffi Ada both said Gov. Sule has mobilized resources for the return of Bassas and other displaced people for their safety at the temporal camp and for onward movement to their respective villages.
Also speaking, HRH Mr Abu Shekwo, the Dadayako of Yelwa Chiefdom on behalf of other traditional rulers appreciated the Governor, the local government chairman and the security agents for ensuring that lasting peace is restored in Toto local government area.
He assured that traditional rulers would sensitize their subjects on the development and to co-exist peacefully at all times.
It would be reported that the expanded security meeting brought together stakeholders including Dr Binba Thomas, representative of Non governmental organization (NGO) who is also helping in sensitizing the people on peaceful coexistence, representative of all tribal and youth organizations in the local government area, women leaders, paramount rulers, religion leaders, Ardo and other fulanis leaders, heads of security agents and leaders of Vigilante groups among others.
The highlights of the meeting include visiting the proposed site for further action by the representative of the state government, local government council and the security personnel among others.(www.krestnews.com).