The General Assembly of the Catholic Diocese of Wukari, Taraba State, has called on Governor Agbu Kefas to prioritize the resettlement and reintegration of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the state.
it would be recalled that some persons have earlier fled their homes due to conflict and criminal activities in the Central and Southern zone of the State.
The call, as noticed by Arogidigba Global Journal, came at the conclusion of the First General Assembly of the Catholic Diocese of Wukari on Saturday, with resolutions outlined in a communique signed by Most Rev. Dr. Mark Maigida Nzukwein, the Bishop, and Very Rev. Fr. Simon Akuraga.
Highlighting the necessity of justice and peace for successful reconciliation, the Assembly emphasized the importance of addressing the internal wounds caused by conflicts through dialogue and conscience formation among the involved parties.
“The past and ongoing conflicts in Taraba State, especially in the Central and Southern parts, are complex phenomena resulting in casualties and displacement,” the statement read.
“The church acknowledges that conflict impedes development and fosters tension.”
The Assembly urged all parties involved in the conflicts to embrace peace, forgive one another, and prioritize the preservation of human life and physical development.
They also called on the State Government to facilitate the return and reintegration of IDPs as the farming season approaches, stating that the call, if adhered to, will foster lasting peace and as well address food insecurity.
Acknowledging the government’s free education policy, the church also appealed for support to mission schools and the return of those previously taken over by the government.