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The paramount ruler of Sankera Intermediate Area, Tor Sankera, HRH David Sevav (JP), tonight convened an emergency peace parley and successfully pulled Ukum Local Government back from the brink of yet another communal clash, this time between neighbouring Kendev and Tyuluv wards.
Trouble had been brewing for days after residents of Kendev accused youths from Tyuluv of invading their farms, robbing traders along the boundary roads, and generally terrorising the area. The accusations triggered retaliatory threats, road blockades, and a sharp rise in tension that many feared could explode into open violence.
Sensing danger, Tor Sankera wasted no time. He summoned an urgent meeting of traditional title holders, district heads, elders, family heads, and youth leaders from both wards to his palace.
In a no-nonsense address, the royal father demanded that the real causes of the friction be laid bare, reminded everyone of the centuries-old blood ties and peaceful coexistence between the two communities, and issued a chilling warning to troublemakers: anyone found fomenting disunity will face the full wrath of Sankera ancestors and the traditional justice system.
The District Head of Tyuluv Ward, His Highness Deuti Azaande, immediately tendered an unreserved apology to the Kendev people, pledged to rein in the errant youths, and promised sanctions against anyone caught harassing neighbours. In turn, the District Head of Kendev, His Highness Terfa Atondo, commended Tor Sankera for the timely intervention and appealed to his people on both sides to remain calm and law-abiding.
The meeting, facilitated by Media Adviser Kolough Clems Jnr, ended with handshakes, joint prayers, and firm commitments from youth representatives to maintain peace and report any criminal elements to the authorities instead of taking the law into their own hands.
As the elders dispersed late tonight, a palpable relief has returned to the affected communities. Markets that had begun closing early are expected to reopen fully tomorrow, and the once-blocked roads are already clearing.
Once again, traditional institution has proven its unmatched power in calming tempers where politics and modern security sometimes struggle. For now, Ukum breathes easier, thanks to the swift, fatherly hand of Tor Sankera.
