Vezühu Keyho, Dr. Vihuto Assumi and others at Kilomi village
local ground on January 14.
DIMAPUR — The 2nd
community meet of the Dzulhami, Khughutomi, and Kilomi was held at the Kilomi
village local ground on January 14.
The event highlighted the deep-rooted ties between the
Chakhesang and Sümi tribes of the three neighbouring villages, according to a
press statement.
It was attended by more than a thousand people, including
the president of the Chakhesang Public Organisation (CPO), Vezühu Keyho, as the
special guest, and the president of Sümi Hoho, Dr. Vihuto Assumi, as the guest
of honour.
In his address, Dr. Assumi described the meet as a powerful
symbol of unity, understanding, and shared heritage. He commended the three
villages for their dedication and hospitality in organising the event, noting
that such programmes help bridge gaps, strengthen relationships, and foster
unity among brother tribes.
He acknowledged the peaceful resolution of past disputes,
including those between Dzulhami and Kilomi on May 1, 1992; Chepokita and
Vishepu on January 12, 1999; and Khutsami and Iphonumi on April 19, 2016. He
remarked that these resolutions serve as remarkable examples of what can be
accomplished through wise leadership, patience, and a spirit of reconciliation.
Keyho, in his address, highlighted the resolution made on
May 9, 1998, to settle all inter-tribal and inter-village disputes between the
two tribes. He noted that there are no longer any land disputes between the
Sümi and Dzulhami communities and urged the attendees to uphold this legacy. He
emphasised that land is not the priority, stating that the relationship between
communities is more important than anything else.
Earlier, in his welcome address, Otova Swu, vice president
of Sümi Hoho, recounted the historic ties between the two communities, which
date back to 1934. He observed that while political conditions in the state had
previously hindered such gatherings, the two tribes have sustained their bond
through shared efforts, including the resolution of border disputes in 1992.
Purujo Nyekha, GB of Dzulhami, extended greetings on behalf
of his village, which comprises over 4,060 households and a population
exceeding 7,000.
The planning board chairman, Atomi Swu, expressed gratitude
to all the dignitaries for attending the event and provided a brief overview of
the origins of the gathering.
The event featured cultural performances by the three
villages and was attended by several dignitaries, including former minister
from Dzulhami, Zachilhu Ringa Vadeo, as well as representatives from the Sümi
Totimi Hoho, Sümi Aphuyemi Kukami Hoho, village chiefs, council chairpersons,
and church leaders.
Popular singer Aloboli Kinimi performed as the guest artiste
during the event.
