By Yusuf Salihu Sansani
A Fellow of the Institute for Crises Resolution, Peace and Conciliation (FICRPC), Dr. Yusha’u Sallau Jen, has declared that peace remains non-negotiable for achieving sustainable socio-economic development in the Muri Emirate of Taraba State.
Dr. Jen made this assertion while speaking as a guest lecturer at the maiden Muri Peace Summit themed “Our Peace, Our Progress,” organised by the Muri Patriotic Elders Forum (MUPEF) in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital.
He emphasised that peaceful coexistence is the foundation of any pluralistic society, noting that despite the Muri Emirate’s rich ethnic diversity, cultural heritage, and abundant natural and human resources, recurring communal conflicts continue to threaten unity, security, and development in the region.
According to him, the gradual erosion of shared values among the people—exacerbated by competition over resources and external influences—has weakened traditional conflict-resolution mechanisms that once sustained harmony.
Dr. Jen called for a renewed commitment to dialogue, reconciliation, and mutual understanding, stressing the need to rebuild trust among communities.
“It is time to embrace dialogue and reconciliation, rebuild trust, and work collectively towards a peaceful future for Muri. Mutual respect among communities, including respect for diverse religious beliefs, is essential for lasting harmony,” he said.
In his presentation, Brigadier General Jeremiah Aliyu Fransa (rtd) described the summit’s theme as a rallying call for unity, resilience, and collective responsibility.
He noted that peace and progress do not occur by chance but require deliberate effort, sacrifice, and collaboration.
Fransa, who is also the Executive Chairman of the Taraba State Internal Revenue Service, underscored that peace and unity are critical drivers of development, providing the stability needed for economic growth, infrastructure expansion, and social advancement.
He warned that persistent conflict depletes resources, destroys livelihoods, and undermines progress.
The Grand Patron of MUPEF and Emir of Muri, Alhaji Abbas Njidda Tafida, represented by the Wazirin Muri, Alhaji Ibrahim Malle, commended the organisers and reaffirmed the Emirate Council’s commitment to fostering lasting peace across the enclave.
In goodwill messages, stakeholders including Senator Abubakar Umar Tutare, Deputy Controller of Customs (rtd) Alhaji Hamidu Buba Jen, Surveyor Aliyu Umar, and various religious leaders, highlighted the importance of peaceful coexistence and called for stronger collaboration among all segments of society.
Senator Tutare, in particular, criticised political actors for contributing to the challenges facing Muri and Nigeria at large, urging a shift in attitude to promote national development.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chairman of MUPEF, Alhaji Hassan Ishaku, noted that while several groups had existed in the past, MUPEF is distinct in its composition, drawing membership exclusively from respected elders with proven records of service and a commitment to peace, prosperity, and sustainable development.
He outlined the forum’s action plan to include peacebuilding initiatives, conflict management and resolution through dialogue and mediation, capacity building, advocacy for peace and democracy, and comprehensive development strategies for the Muri Emirate.
In his vote of thanks, Chairman of the Summit Organising Committee, Saidu Usman Gassol, expressed appreciation to participants for their attendance and wished them safe journeys back to their respective destinations.
