Following hours of closed-door deliberations, the estranged political allies who had been embroiled in a cold war embraced themselves to the cheers of their followers.
The Tiv Traditional Council led by the Tor Tiv, Prof James Ayatse brokered peace between the Benue State Governor, Hyacinth Alia, and the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume.
The erstwhile political allies had been tangled in a cold war over the political leadership of the North Central state.
The struggle reached its peak with the recent inauguration of a factional All Progressives Congress (APC) State Executive Council by the governor, a development wherein the police waded in, and took over the APC State Secretariat to forestall violence.
Concerned over the worsening crisis, the Tiv monarch and his council requested a meeting with the two to iron out differences at the Tor Tiv Palace in Gboko.
Ayatse informed newsmen that peace has returned between the two leaders and tasked all to walk the talk for the growth of the state.
“The two leaders have agreed to put aside their political differences and work for the progress of Benue.
“Today, I called the Governor of Benue, Rev Fr Alia, and the SGF, Sen George Akume, to discuss with them because of reports that we have received about conflicts between them.
“We have spoken with them. They have told us the issues. We discussed the issues and agreed together.
“They agreed to bury their differences and work together as a team for the good of the people.
“So, all the past differences have been put aside and now we have a fresh start. We shall work together in unity, in cooperation and agreement for the progress and development of Benue.
“The leaders have made a commitment to keep to their word and ensure that there is peace and unity between them going forward.”
Also at the reconciliation meeting was Senator Barnabas Gemade.
