The governments of Sokoto and Kebbi States have resolved to find a permanent solution to the border disputes between the two neighbouring states.
The deputy governors of the two states made the commitment in Abuja yesterday, during the joint meeting of its interstate boundary in Abuja.
The deputy governor of Sokoto State, Manir Muhammad Dan Iya Sardaunan Kware said the lingering boundary dispute between Sokoto and Kebbi state are far back in 1990s when the Kebbi state was created out of Sokoto state but due to the historical anticident and leadership of the two states do not mind to address those problems.
“However, population growth and the effect of climate change is changing the pattern of the dispute. At this juncture it becomes imperative to find a lasting solution to the lingering problem and NBC intervention is necessary.”
Also speaking, the deputy governor of Kebbi, His Excellency Col. Samaila Yombe Dabai said the two states remain one. “We need to go back and enlighten our people about the need for the demarcation, it is just for administrative purposes, not dividing the state.”
The National Boundary Commission (NBC), the Director-General of NBC, Surv. Adamu Adaji said the misunderstanding between the two states must be resolved as quickly as possible so as not to create any bad blood amongst our people.
“It is against this background that I wish to urge the leaders who are in authority to kindly take steps to encourage and ensure that the cordial relationship and peaceful boundary regime is sustained.
“As leaders, our border communities rely on us to bequeath to them a clear boundary devoid of any political sentiments and to sensitize them that the boundary is sole to to serve as the limits of administrative jurisdictions of the Local Government areas and the States.
“Let me pause to commend all the stakeholders for the patient and cooperation and to urge you all to continue to promote the peace amongst our common border communities while the Federal Government in close collaboration with the two States expedite actions to demarcate the boundary to take advantage of the believe that good fences make good neighbours,” he said.
