Concerned stakeholders and victims of the ongoing Jukun-Tiv conflict in Taraba State have pushed back against recent claims that meaningful progress is being made toward peace, describing such assertions as misleading and unsupported by realities on the ground.
In a statement released on Friday, the group said it does not share the growing optimism being projected by officials and mediators. According to them, what is often presented as “peace efforts” has failed to translate into tangible improvements, particularly for displaced Tiv communities.
They noted that while meetings continue to be held and public statements issued, there is little evidence of concrete action or sustained commitment from the Taraba State Government.
“Beyond these optics, the situation remains largely unchanged for those directly affected,” the statement said.
The stakeholders identified what they described as a central issue: an apparent reluctance by authorities in Taraba State to take full ownership of the crisis.
They argued that the conflict, being internal and involving long-established communities, should be addressed decisively within the state rather than relying heavily on external mediation efforts that have yet to yield lasting results.
They also raised concerns about the role of security forces, alleging that deployments, particularly involving the military, have restricted displaced Tiv persons from returning to their ancestral homes. This, they said, creates the perception that force is being used in ways that may reinforce displacement rather than facilitate peacebuilding.
“Peace cannot be built on exclusion or enforced through restriction,” the statement emphasised, adding that any genuine reconciliation process must begin with the safe and unconditional return of displaced persons, alongside guarantees of protection and justice.
The group further questioned the timing of renewed peace engagements, suggesting a link between increased political activity and heightened publicity surrounding interventions.
Signed by Vincent T. Tortsugh on behalf of concerned citizens and victims of the crisis, the statement warned that such efforts have historically faded once political pressures ease, leaving communities vulnerable and deepening mistrust.
Among their key demands, the stakeholders called for peace initiatives driven by clear political will within the state, an end to restrictions on displaced persons, and the introduction of enforceable measures, timelines, and accountability mechanisms.
Reiterating that the Tiv people are not opposed to peace, they noted that previous processes have failed to address underlying injustices.
Taraba Crisis: Tiv stakeholders dismiss peace claims, demand return of displaced persons
