The Baruten Patriotic Agenda has called for the intervention of Kwara State governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, in the brewing ethnic conflict in Chikanda community, Baruten Local Government Area.  

In a press statement in Abuja on Sunday, the BPA Secretary, Aliyu Seko, said the situation had reached a critical point.

 “It demands immediate attention from the state government and all relevant stakeholders. The crisis, which started from a provocative audio clip from one Alhaji Nafiu Amuda, and was amicably resolved by first-class emirs and political office holders, has now become an escalating issue of concern in Chikanda. “Already, some houses have been set ablaze while scores of persons have been injured by irate youths, posing a significant threat to the peace and security of the entire Baruten LGA,” Mr Seko said.

He said the development was deeply alarming and, if left unaddressed could lead to loss of innocent lives and valuable property. .

Mr Seko said that as a civil society organisation, BPA implores Mr Abdulrazaq, as the chief security officer of Kwara to take swift and decisive action to restore peace and harmony in Chikanda and its surrounding areas.

“BPA also calls upon all relevant stakeholders, including the security agencies, to join hands in resolving this crisis before it escalates beyond control. The Baruten Patriotic Agenda firmly believes in the power of dialogue, understanding, and peaceful coexistence.

“We urge you to employ necessary means to facilitate dialogue between the conflicting parties and foster an environment of mutual respect and tolerance,” the spokesman said.

Mr Seko said it was crucial to address the root causes of the tension and work out a tolerable resolution that promotes unity and harmony among all ethnic groups in Chikanda and other affected communities.

The BPA called on the governor to deploy adequate security personnel to the affected communities to ensure the safety of the residents and prevent any further acts of violence or destruction.

“We are also using this medium to urge you to engage with the emirs, community leaders, religious leaders, and other relevant stakeholders to promote reconciliation and peaceful coexistence.

“We trust Abdukrazaq’s leadership and commitment to the welfare of the people of Kwara, Batombu inclusive. We believe that with your prompt intervention and the collective efforts of all stakeholders, the crisis in Chikanda can be resolved, and peace can be restored,” Mr Seko said. 

(NAN)