Peace between two Naga villages after 65 years of animosity

Dimapur, Jan. 10: After spending 65 years in enmity, the two villages of Chepoketa and Ikiye on December 20 last, decided to reconcile “in the name of Jesus, our Prince of Peace”.

Chepoketa is a Chakesang village while Ikiye is a Sumi village. According to a press statement received here on Tuesday: “The animosity between the two villages arose as a consequence of an incident on 20th February 1952 where Late Sakiye Aye from Ikiye village was murdered by some men from Chepoketa village and in retaliation Ikiye villagers burnt down the entire Chepoketa village in the same year.
“Since then there was no further communication on the matter although there had been no unwanted situation concerning the past event.” The reconciliation meeting held at Chepoketa Baptist Church was made possible by the efforts of JP Vikugha Jimo – a retired DIG – who “took initiative to pave the way for reconciliation to bring peace between the two villages”, according to the statement.

“Rev. Vezopa Tetseo and Inato, son of Lt. Sakiye spoke on forgiveness on behalf of both the villages and pronouncement of blessing was done by Hekheto son of Lt. Sakiye, Head GB, Ikiye village and Yesai Vero, Head GB, Chepoketa village. As a sign of sincere reconciliation by both parties, Holy Bible was exchanged and reconciliation papers were signed by both village leaders.

“Rev. Puduhu Khesoh was the minister of the reconciliation service, and the meeting was chaired by Mr. Zhopra Vero. The meeting was also supported and attended by neighbouring villages. We give glory and honor to God, under whose mighty Grace we reconcile. Praise God!,” the statement read.