* Establish skill aquisition centres for youths in these areas to keep them engaged, self-reliant and productive – Report
By Muhammad B Muhammad
Poverty and ignorance have been identified to be among the factors that caused crises between Lunguda and Waja communities in Adamawa and Gombe states that affected over 13,000 people.
This is part of the findings by the 18-man committee on the rebirth and sustenance of peace among Lunguda and Waja communities constituted by Governors Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa and Governor Inuwa Yahaya of Gombe states.
Presenting the interim report to Governor Fintiri Wednesday, Adamawa Deputy Governor, Crowther Seth advised government to establish skill aquisition centres for youths in these areas to keep them engaged, self-reliant and productive.
“Government should direct traditional rulers to take the issue of farmland demarcation very seriously, if necessary, set up standing committees to assist in carrying out that responsibility.
“Security operatives should rededicate themselves to their responsibilities and discharge their duties of prosecuting offenders with due diligence,” said the report.
According to the committee’s recommendation, district heads should engage their communities in frequent meetings and dialogue in order to know their problems and proffer solutions.
“There is the need for members of vigilantes and hunters associations in the area to be properly screened before they are allowed to assist the security operatives.
“Rumor mongering should be discouraged.
“The youths of both Lunguda and Waja people should be brought to a roundtable that will permit Frank discussions on the course(s) of the crises and proffer solutions,” it said.
The committee urged state government to rehabilitate Mamsirme Maternal Health Centre and Gundeyi II Primary and Secondary Schools.
Responding, Governor Umaru Fintiri thanked the committee for the dedication put into the assignment and assured them that the interim report would be studied thoroughly by government for implementation.
The Governor said maintaining peace is everybody’s responsibility, “it is a task that we should carry so that we live in peace and harmony”.