Former Nigerian Ambassador to Trinidad and Tobago, Hassan Jika Ardo, has appealed to residents of the Mambilla Plateau in Taraba State to embrace peace and refrain from actions capable of escalating tensions in the area.

Ardo, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Taraba State, made the appeal on weekend in an audio message addressed to residents of the plateau.

In statement signed by Sulaiman Ibrahim Ahmed, Director of Media and Publicity, Senator Emmanuel E. Bwacha Campaign Council, Ardo called on the Mambillas, Fulanis, Kakas, Pansos and other ethnic groups in the area to sheathe their swords, tolerate one another and work together for the development of the region.

According to him, the Mambilla Plateau has suffered enough from bloodshed and destruction of property in the past, stressing that another round of violence should not be allowed to occur.

The former ambassador said lasting peace and development could only be achieved through the collective efforts of the people, noting that no community could make meaningful progress in an atmosphere of rancour and acrimony.

Ardo also commended residents of Mbar for what he described as an act of brotherliness and solidarity when some Mambillas reportedly shielded Fulani residents from assailants during last week’s crisis.

He said the gesture reflected the spirit of coexistence for which the Mambilla Plateau is known.

The diplomat further urged the government and security agencies operating in the area to intensify efforts towards the speedy restoration of peace, describing it as both a moral and statutory responsibility.

He appealed to all parties involved in the crisis to de-escalate tensions by moderating their rhetoric, warning that inflammatory statements could amount to hate speech and incitement to violence.

Ardo also cautioned politicians against playing politics with the lives and property of residents, saying such actions were detrimental to peaceful coexistence and ultimately served no one.

The statement was signed by Sulaiman Ibrahim Ahmed, Director of Media and Publicity, Senator Emmanuel E. Bwacha Campaign Council.