Ex-Minister, Dalung urges Taroh, Montol Communities to shun killings, destruction of properties

From: Ajiya Ayuba,Bauchi

The former minister of Youths and sport development, Solomon Selcap Dalung on Tuesday has called on the two warring communities of Taroh and Montol to shun violence, attacks and killings in the areas.

He however, called on Taroh and Montol communities to embrace peace, and should do everything possible to reconcile their differences.

Minister Dalung made this known through in a statement signed and issued to newsmen on Tuesday.

According to him: “I am deeply troubled and saddened by the recent outbreak of communal violence that has rocked the Ponglong-Lalin and Funyalang districts of Mikang and Langtang North local government area’s of Plateau State.

He said that the regrettable incident, which occurred on Saturday, March 23rd, 2024, has resulted in the loss of precious human lives, destruction of properties, and the theft of livestock.

“As a former Minister of Youth Sports and Youth Development in Nigeria and a stakeholder in the Taroh tribe, I am profoundly concerned about the well-being and safety of our communities”

He added that Taroh and Montol tribes have a history of peaceful coexistence, and such violent upheavals are unprecedented and unnecessary.

“Despite attempts to sow discord among them, that they must stand united against the actions of conflict merchants who seek to destabilize their communities.

“I urge all parties involved to refrain from further violence and to engage in constructive dialogue to address the underlying grievances. It is essential that we work together to identify the root causes of this conflict and find peaceful solutions that promote reconciliation and harmony”

” I call upon the security agencies to swiftly apprehend those responsible for instigating violence and to ensure the safety and security of all residents in the affected areas. Intelligence failures must be addressed, and proactive measures must be implemented to prevent future outbreaks of violence” he stated.

The former minister, Dalung stated further that” In this time of crisis, it is imperative that we come together as a community to support one another and to provide assistance to those who have been affected by the conflict. I urge the Plateau state government and the council chairmen of Mikang and Langtang North LGAs to provide immediate humanitarian aid to the affected communities.

Dalung appealed to the communities, youths to refrain from acts of violence and to embrace peaceful means of conflict resolution.

“Your voices are powerful, and your participation in peace-building efforts is crucial to restoring stability in our communities”

” As leaders, we must rise to the occasion and demonstrate our commitment to peace and unity. Let us work tirelessly to address the grievances of our people and to safeguard the future of our communities”

He also called on stakeholders, both within and outside the affected areas, to join hands in promoting peace and reconciliation in Taroh and Montol communities in order to overcome the challenge and build a brighter future for generations to come.