BY: HADIZA IBRAHIM NGULDE
The Borno State Government, in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), has launched a transitional justice framework aimed at promoting peace and reconciliation in communities affected by insurgency.
A three-day workshop, held at the Musa Usman Secretariat in Maiduguri, brought together Peace Reconciliation and Monitoring Committees (PRM) from six Local Government Areas (LGAs).
The workshop focused on finalizing a blueprint for reconciliation between low-risk returnee insurgents and local communities.
Barrister Falmata Harun, representing the ministry of justice, emphasized the importance of accountability and prosecution in transitional justice.
'Accountability and prosecution are central to transitional justice.
'We acknowledge the challenges, such as evidence gaps, but we praise the successes of the Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration (DDR) program,' she said.
Prof. Usman A. Tar, commissioner for information and internal security, presented the committees' terms of reference, highlighting their critical role in addressing grievances, rebuilding trust, and promoting sustainable peace.
'The Peace Reconciliation and Monitoring Committees play a vital role in promoting peace and reconciliation in our communities,' he said.
Representing the governor, secretary to the state government (SSG) Mal. Bukar Tijani, stressed the importance of involving traditional rulers, community leaders, and local organizations in reconciliation efforts.
'These groups are at the heart of their communities and best positioned to facilitate peace and reintegration,' he said.
The Shehu of Borno, HRH. Alhaji Dr. Abubakar Ibn Umar Garbai Al-Amin El-Kanemi, welcomed the initiative, emphasizing the resilience of Borno's people.
'We appreciate the efforts of the Borno State Government and its partners in promoting peace and reconciliation,' he said.
The workshop featured research paper presentations by Prof. Mala Mustapha and Dr. Ibrahim Muhammad Ahmad, highlighting the relevance of transitional justice mechanisms to Borno State.
Development partners, including UNDP, UNICEF, IOM, and others, expressed confidence in the framework's potential to restore trust and rebuild communities.