On Monday, the Tiv Traditional Council successfully mediated a reconciliation between Governor Hyacinth Alia and Senator George Akume, who serves as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.
The once strong political friends were locked in a silent battle for control over the leadership of the North Central state.
The tension peaked when the Governor inaugurated a rival faction’s APC State Executive Council, prompting the Police to intervene and take control of the APC State Secretariat to prevent possible violence.
The Tiv paramount ruler, Prof James Ayatse, and the Tiv Traditional Council (TTC) were concerned about the escalating crisis so they invited the two parties to sit down and talk things out.
The TTC convened a private meeting with the two prominent leaders in Gboko, the heartland of the Tiv community, with the aim of resolving any conflicts between them.
During his press briefing, Ayatse informed reporters that the two parties had come to an agreement to resolve their differences amicably.
“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.”
“Yes, they made a commitment. They shook hands and embraced one another. They have promised to work as a team.
“We are happy with the resolutions they took themselves and we believe they have shown commitment. We are their fathers in the land; our blessings have a lot of importance in their activities.
“So, to make such commitment in the presence of the traditional rulers of the land is very weighty. We do believe that they will adhere to the resolutions that we have reached today,” he said.