Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas has pledged to consolidate peace and development in the state, warning traditional rulers that his administration will no longer tolerate practices undermining stability.
Governor Kefas gave the warning while addressing royal fathers at TY Danjuma House in Jalingo as Taraba marked its 34th anniversary of creation.
He condemned practices including indiscriminate sale of land, illegal issuance of mining consent letters, involvement in illegal mining, uncontrolled conferment of chieftaincy titles, and unvetted appointments of Ardos (warrant chiefs), which he said fuel farmer–herder conflicts and aid banditry.
A statement by the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Yusuf Sanda, stressed that any traditional ruler found culpable would face disciplinary measures ranging from suspension to deposition or prosecution.
“No person, no matter how highly placed, is above the law of Taraba State. Where the law is silent, I will invoke the doctrine of necessity to protect the people,” Governor Kefas warned.
While calling for discipline, he emphasised partnership, not rivalry, between government and traditional institutions, urging royal fathers to protect their domains, consult authorities before conferring titles or appointing Ardos, and work with the state to foster peace and development.
Governor Kefas reassured citizens that his government remained sensitive to their needs and is systematically addressing security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and jobs as resources permit.
He urged stakeholders to see the anniversary as a turning point, reminding them that leadership is a sacred trust from both God and the people.
“Let us secure Taraba, let us unite Taraba, and let us move Taraba forward,” he charged.
The Governor said the state’s 34th anniversary provides an opportunity to chart a new path of unity, discipline, and shared progress, positioning Taraba as a beacon of peace and sustainable development in Nigeria’s North East.
PIAK