Christian groups from Benue and Plateau states have commended former Zamfara State Governor and Senator representing Zamfara West, Senator Abdulaziz Yari, for what they described as his landmark efforts toward ensuring sustainable peace and unity in Northern Nigeria.
The groups, drawn from various Christian associations and community leaders across the two states, expressed their appreciation in a joint statement issued on Sunday, noting that Senator Yari’s intervention came at a critical time when the region has continued to grapple with recurring communal tensions and security challenges.
According to the statement sign by Reverend Innocent Ogbanje and Pastor Peter Lange , Senator Yari has demonstrated uncommon statesmanship by rising above political, ethnic and religious divides to engage stakeholders in genuine dialogue aimed at fostering peaceful coexistence.
The groups said his approach, which emphasizes inclusiveness, mutual respect and justice, has helped to douse tension and restore confidence among communities affected by protracted conflicts.
They noted that his recent consultations with traditional rulers, religious leaders, youth groups and security agencies in parts of the North, particularly in Benue and Plateau states, sent a strong message that peacebuilding requires collective responsibility and sincere leadership.
“Senator Abdulaziz Yari has shown that peace is achievable when leaders are willing to listen, engage and act in the interest of all, irrespective of faith or background,” the statement read.
“His intervention has rekindled hope among our people and reinforced the need for unity as the only pathway to sustainable development in the region.”
The Christian groups further applauded the senator for promoting interfaith understanding, describing his outreach to Christian leaders as a significant step toward bridging trust gaps and addressing long-standing grievances. They said such efforts are crucial in countering narratives of division and in strengthening the bonds of brotherhood among diverse communities in the North.
While calling on other political leaders to emulate Senator Yari’s example, the groups urged the federal and state governments to complement such initiatives with concrete policies that address the root causes of conflict, including poverty, unemployment and weak justice mechanisms.
They reaffirmed their commitment to peace and pledged to continue working with Muslim groups, traditional institutions and government authorities to sustain dialogue and prevent future crises.
The groups concluded by praying for wisdom and strength for leaders championing peace across the region, stressing that the stability of Northern Nigeria remains vital to the unity and progress of the country as a whole.
Middle-Belt Times 