Pictures: Plateau Youths united in commendable “peace walk” organised by Plateau G-17

The Plateau G17 movement has scored another milestone, with a successful independence peace walk (tagged “I am my brothers keeper”), which has united Plateau youths from all social demographics, political groups and religious beliefs.

Organised by its founder, Comrade Dachung Bagos, the walk brought together Hausa Fulani and Igbo youths who in recent times have been at each others jugular over IPOB’s activities in the South East and the quit notice issued to Igbos to vacate the North.

The ultimatum issued by Hausa youths which should technically have come into effect on the 1st of October, went without much issues. However, in the build up to the date, several Igbo traders shutdown their shops and commercial premises so as not to be taken unawares. This led to the paralysis of business activities in Jos and Bukuru environs, which necessitated the state government to release a quick communique re-assuring citizens of adequate security measures (in the context of the existing curfew).

ViewPointNigeria Analysis

This initiative by Plateau G-17 is highly commendable. And has served to restore confidence and trust in the minds of all communities co-habitting in Plateau state. It shows that the unity of purpose and cooperation are harbingers of peaceful co-existence.

It opens up opportunities for dialogue, social integration and democratic consolidation. And is a clear demonstration of how we as a community can go beyond rhetorics, platitudes and words and actually undertake meaningful events which will foster peace and unity.