The Bauchi State government has inaugurated a 30-member peacebuilding committee to address recurring violence in Bogoro and Tafawa Balewa local government areas.
The committee, comprising Muslim and Christian clerics alongside security representatives, was inaugurated on Monday by Governor Bala Mohammed at the Government House, Bauchi.
Governor Mohammed said the initiative was aimed at consolidating the fragile peace in the two councils following recent attacks that claimed lives and triggered reprisal clashes.
“The inauguration of this interfaith committee is crucial to sensitise citizens on the importance of peaceful coexistence, tolerance, and unity,” the governor stated.
“This move became necessary to consolidate the peace we have sustained for over six years, which is now being threatened by unpatriotic elements hiding under the guise of farmer-herder clashes.”
The governor warned against attempts to undermine the state’s reputation as one of the most peaceful in the North-East.
He vowed that his administration would deal decisively with any individuals or groups instigating violence.
He added that the committee would leverage the influence of religious leaders to promote interfaith dialogue, mediate disputes, and mobilise communities towards peacebuilding.
Co-chaired by Imam Fauz Ado of Tafawa Balewa and Rev Fr Vincent Bature, the committee’s mandate includes sustained sensitisation campaigns, fostering dialogue between groups, and exposing perpetrators of violence.
In his remarks, Rev Fr Bature said both Islam and Christianity advocate peace, stressing that clerics would take the campaign to grassroots communities to counter the activities of troublemakers.
“Where there is no peace, there will be no progress and justice,” he said.
Imam Ado assured that the committee would not only preach peace but also expose those fuelling crises, regardless of their social standing.
“Insha Allahu, if we find anyone among us involved, we will hand him over to security agencies,” he declared.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to supporting the committee, adding that Bauchi’s growth and development depend on sustained harmony in the state
