Catholic Clerics laments growing insecurity in Taraba

 

From Godwin Agia, Jalingo

The Taraba State Catholic priests of Jalingo Diocese, has on Tuesday lamented the rising state of  in the State, called on government at all levels, to stand up for their primary responsibility of safeguarding the lives and properties of Tarabans.

This was contained in a communique signed and issued by Bishop, Most Rev. Charles Hammawa and Very Rev. Fr. Eugene Batare Chancellor Catholic Diocese of Jalingo at their 21st general assembly, said the escalating insecurity was geared by ethnic and religious differences and the urgent need to address it.

According to the communique, the church called on the State to collaborate with the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo in her multifaceted peace building initiatives for better results.

Taraba State has for some years now, been experiencing insecurity of all sorts, and our part of the State is not an exception. "We observe with pain, that newer incidences of banditry, kidnapping, and land grabbing are on the rise. Factors such as ethnic and religious differences have exacerbated the situation." 

"These cases have led to loss of lives and properties, and have caused distress, psychological trauma, suspicion, anxiety, and for some, even loss of faith or doubt in the power of God. Consequently, we notice a decline in spiritual and religious activities". 

"Indeed, crises and even overt wars of whatever form, shape, and magnitude are inevitable in a community, but that they must happen does not however mean that we stop doing what needs to be done to curtail them. Thus, our mission as a Church, especially in this distress situation, becomes even more relevant."

"We call on the State to collaborate with the Catholic Diocese of Jalingo in her multifaceted peace-building initiatives for better results. We also invite our Traditional Rulers to see us as partners in this project of peace management for the common good of our society. We urge that peace-building be seen as an obligation not only institutions and the Government, but also of individuals; everybody has something to offer to bring about a peaceful society."

"We exhort that all those affected should look up to the iconic examples of Job and Paul in the Scriptures (cf. Job 1:22; 11 Cor. 11:24-27) to keep faith alive despite the challenges, for faith in God is vital to resilience, We urge that institutions and individuals show the needed love and concern to victims of the menace of insecurity by being present to them, empathizing with them, and assisting their situations". 

"These acts nurture the sense of community, give reason to live on, and sustain positive hope for the future. Most importantly, stakeholders, community leaders, and even individuals should initiate within the community, proactive measures to forestall this sweeping wave of insecurity,"  they added.

Ibi Local Government Council Chairman Applauds Teachers' Commitment to Quality Education

 

By Henry Agbu

Chairman Muhammed Ajibu of the Ibi Local Government Council commended teachers for their invaluable contribution to society by imparting knowledge.

 Speaking at a three-day training organized by the Kwararafa Galaxy Club for mathematics and science teachers from public primary schools, Ajibu urged educators to prioritize continuous training to enhance their skills.

Highlighting the significance of quality education in science and mathematics, TY Danjuma Foundation's Project Officer, Associate Professor Zaku Sabo, emphasized that these subjects serve as the foundation for industrial growth. 

The project, funded by the TY Danjuma Foundation and implemented by the Kwararafa Galaxy Club, aims to support African countries' aspirations for development through enhanced education in science and mathematics.

Sabo stressed the importance of primary school teachers regularly updating their knowledge and skills through training, seminars, and workshops to enhance the quality of science and mathematics education.

Emmanuel Ishaku, the State Coordinator of the TY Danjuma Foundation, reiterated the foundation's commitment to improving teacher skills to enhance the quality of education. 

He urged the state government to prioritize teacher training and development to optimize their performance.

Dr. Adashu Gani from the Federal University Wukari emphasized the pivotal role of education in societal development, particularly in shaping the minds of primary school-age children.

 He encouraged primary school teachers to make science education engaging, relevant, and practical for students, emphasizing its importance in their overall development.

Kidnapping Crisis Threatens Food Security in Taraba State

 

By Thomas Samuel

Taraba State has been grappling with a severe wave of kidnappings in recent years, causing immense distress and upheaval across the region. Brazen kidnappers have targeted innocent civilians, collected ransoms, and displaced numerous families, reaching a grim climax in 2023 with the reported kidnapping of over 49 people in a single village.

The southern part of the state, particularly Takum, Ussa, Wukari, and Donga local government areas, has borne the brunt of these criminal activities. Kidnappers operate with impunity, striking in broad daylight and sowing chaos and destruction. Law enforcement agencies have engaged in deadly encounters with suspected kidnappers, resulting in casualties on both sides.

Innocent lives have been lost in these heinous acts, including the killing of a pregnant woman in Mayo Ranewo, Ardo Kola local government area. The abduction of prominent figures, such as district heads and religious leaders, further underscores the severity of the crisis. However, the Nigerian Army has demonstrated remarkable bravery in thwarting some of these attacks. In one incident, the troops of the 6 Brigade, Nigerian Army, successfully neutralized a threat and recovered a significant arms cache after a gun battle with suspected bandits in the Wukari local government area.

The impact of this insecurity extends beyond personal safety, with ramifications for food security and agricultural productivity. Taraba State, known as the "Nature’s gift to the nation," boasts vast arable land and is a major producer of staple crops such as maize, millet, and yam. However, the menace of kidnappings has disrupted farming activities, forcing many farmers to abandon their fields out of fear for their lives.

The disruption of agricultural activities poses a significant threat to Nigeria's food security, exacerbating inflation and driving up food prices. To address this multifaceted challenge, proactive measures must be implemented at both the state and federal levels. Ensuring the safety and security of farmers is paramount to sustaining agricultural production and safeguarding livelihoods.

In conclusion, the kidnapping crisis in Taraba State not only poses a threat to individual safety but also undermines the region's vital role in food production. By prioritizing security and implementing effective strategies to combat kidnappings, Taraba can reclaim its status as a beacon of agricultural abundance.

Thomas Samuel is an Editor at the Taraba State Broadcasting Service and a Research Fellow at the Reuters Institute for the Study of Journalism at Oxford University UK

Civil society organization urges Taraba state government to increase budgetary allocation to improve water sanitation

 

From Godwin Agia, Jalingo

The Society for Water and Sanitation (NEWSAN) has on Thursday called on the State government to increase budgetary allocation to prioritize and improve water sanitation and hygiene in Taraba State.

Taraba NEWSAN Coordinator, Mr Boniface Koson disclosed this during a one-day Multi-Stakeholder Consultative meeting in Jalingo, which followed up on NEWSAN's "WASH Charter for Demands" that was signed by some political candidates during the 2023 general elections. 

The workshop aimed to leverage the charter to encourage newly elected government leaders to prioritize climate-resilient and water sanitation services.

Boniface pointed out that climate change is exacerbating the vulnerability of health systems, stressing sanitation infrastructure, and leading to the contamination of water sources and the environment, thereby increasing the risk of disease.

The urgency according to him is underscored by the fact that 48 million Nigerians still engaged in open defecation, and only 8 percent of the population adheres to clean handwashing practices. To combat these challenges and to achieve Nigeria's goal is to become open-defecation-free by 2024.

He emphasized the need for improved public perception, increased political prioritization, adequate funding, and strong policies and institutions.

In the same vein, Engr. Musa Buba Siam, TAWASCO Managing Director, represented by the Director in the agency, Engr. Elijah Kunga reaffirmed government's commitment to ensuring universal access to clean water, sanitation facilities, and hygiene education, emphasizing the principle of leaving no one behind.

Mr Julius Penda, coordinator for the Community Education and Development Initiative Centre, stressed the importance of developing water and sanitation services that are sustainable, safe, and resilient to climate-related risk. These build community resilience and help the country adapt to the effects of climate change, he said.

Also, a facilitator Mr Yoila Raymond, pointed out that poor budget allocation would not in any way improve clean water sustainability in the State. Encouraged key players to give water sanitation and hygiene as well as climate change the needed attention to improve clean water accessibility for all.

Insecurity: Stop attack on our people, group urges FG.

 

From Godwin Agia, Jalingo

A group known as Ayatutu Cultural and Social Development Initiative (AYACASODI) an umbrella body of Tiv people, on Wednesday called on the Federal government and the international community to expediently tackle the issue of incessant attacks on Tiv communities by killer herdsmen before the carnage gets out of control. 

The national President of the group Chief Timothy Baaki, who disclosed this in a statement issued on Wednesday said that the continued attacks have led to the death of thousands, displacement of even more people, and destruction of property beyond imagination.

Baaki stated "We address you today with saddened and heavy hearts, to condemn the continuous invasions and killings of harmless Tiv people by Fulani killer herdsmen. It is no longer news that the safety and security of the Tiv people in Benue, Taraba, and Nasarawa States are under grave threat.

"For too long, we have endured the terror inflicted upon us by marauding herdsmen who have brought untold suffering and death to our doorsteps. Our once peaceful communities have become a battleground, where innocent lives are lost at an alarming rate. Families have been torn apart, livelihoods destroyed, and the very fabric of our society is unraveling before our eyes. The atrocities committed by these herdsmen cannot be ignored or brushed aside as isolated incidents. 

"The most recent ones that have been recorded are those in Ukum Local Government Area. Almost every council ward has recorded herders' attacks, including the most recent Gbagir attack, which took place on Tuesday, 5th March 2024, where these terrorists invaded the Gbagir community, Tyuluv Council ward, and killed over forty people including women, children, and even seven (7) members of one family. Also on the 7th of March 2024, these Fulani killer herdsmen attacked Wa-too, Mbaikyor community, Mbalôm Council Ward, in Gwer East LGA of Benue State. Over twenty (20) people were killed including women and children, and properties destroyed.

"Pathetically, Guma LGA has automatically become home to the Fulani killer herdsmen, even the Governor of Benue State had to ban social gatherings in Guma due to the insecurity in the LGA. Logo Local Government Area is not exempted from these incessant attacks. The attacks on Anyiin, Mchia, Iorza, Ayilamo, and many other communities are still fresh in our minds. 

Such is the same with other non-Tiv Local Government Areas in Benue State, like Agatu, Apa, Otukpo LGAs, etc. In both Taraba and Nasarawa States, our people have not had access to their homes and farms for many years now. Many villages are abandoned for fear of herders' attacks. This is no doubt, increasing the level of insecurity and famine in our communities. 

"We hereby condemn in strong terms, these incessant attacks on citizens of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and wholeheartedly sympathize with the affected families and Tiv Nation at large. We also wish to state categorically that, there is no justification for the killings of innocent unarmed people by these herders, therefore anybody or group of people defending or giving excuses on their behalf should desist from such," the statement reads in part.

While commending the States and Federal Government, the group calls for the "implementation of the Open Grazing Prohibition and Ranches Establishment Law 2017 by the Benue State Government, to curtail these violations. The time for action is now. We cannot afford to wait any longer while the blood of our brothers and sisters continues to be shed with impunity. We appeal to the government to act decisively to restore peace and security to our communities, and ensure that all citizens can live their lives without fear of violence or persecution".

Baaki further called on the International community to "come and save us from the hands of these Fulani killer herdsmen We also call on our people to remain calm and law-abiding, hoping that the relevant authorities will intervene urgently and guarantee our safety," he said.

NYSC Taraba: Gov Kefas donates an additional 1,000 mattresses

 

From Godwin Agia, Jalingo

Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State on Tuesday donated an additional 1,000 mattresses to the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) for the use of Corps members during their orientation course.

The state Commissioner of Youths and Sports Development, Mr. Joshua Joseph, represented by the permanent secretary in the ministry, Mrs. Indo Markson, while handing over the mattresses to the State Coordinator, Joseph reiterated the State governor's continued bid to improve the welfare of Corps members serving in Taraba State. 

"Even though we have a lot of things competing for attention from the government, His Excellency has a special interest in the NYSC programs and Corps members' Welfare," he said.

State Coordinator NYSC Taraba, Mr Anthony Nzoka while receiving the 1,000 mattresses, commended Governor Agbu Kefas for his unrelenting support and usual contributions to the activities of the National Youth Service Corps in Taraba State.

Nzoka stressed that the management of NYSC Taraba State, under his watch would continue to devise every possible means to provide prompt and quality service delivery to corps members. 

"My problem now has been put to rest, when I arrived here in 2021, the ENDSARS had just taken place, and this camp was looted, from what I was told, the looting exercises made them cart away all the good mattresses, the remaining ones I inherited here were so bad that each time the Corps members were being issued mattresses and they are taken it to their hostels I will be feeling like crying, but today I think that is a thing of the past," he said.

Nzoka also assured the State government, that the mattresses would be put for the exact use that they are meant for.

pdate: Bodies of Missing Couple Found in Taraba, Search Continues for Child

 

From Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

No fewer than Four days after a bus was attacked where 7 persons were killed, the decomposing bodies of a pastor of an African Church and his wife were on Saturday found in the bush along Maraba Baisa in Donga local government area of Taraba state while their 13 months old baby is missing.

Pastor Kumator Jacob Aba was declared missing on Wednesday while he left his church in Bali, the headquarters of Bali local government area of Taraba state to attend a church congress in Donga on a motorcycle with his wife and 13-month-old baby.

While the pastor could not reach his destination, members of the African church became worried going by the happenings that travelers were been killed particularly those from the Tiv speaking ethnic on the Maraba Baisa Bali road.

The head of Tiv traditional rulers in Taraba state and Ter Bali Chief David Gbaa while speaking with our correspondent, said the body of the pastor was found in the bush near Maraba Baisa while the youths and security were conducting a search to know where the pastor and his family were. 

He said when the bodies were found, they invited the police for proper records and documentation before it was evacuated to the Mortuary. 

"Pastor Jacob Abba is the pastor of the African Church at Adi Parish in Bali, he left Bali on Wednesday to attend his church congress in Donga, but he could not reach the destination and he did not come back home for over three days.

"All the pastors of the parish were worried, all the Tiv community was worried because of the level of killings going on within the Maraba area, we embarked on a search and Saturday 16th of March, we found his decomposing body and his wife in the bush.

"His 13-year-old baby is missing, and the motorcycle they used for the trip is also nowhere to be found, we were accompanied to the scene by the police to evacuate the bodies. Gbaa stated.

The commissioner of police in Taraba state David Iloyonomon did not respond when contacted over the incident, though, Taraba state governor Dr. Agbu Kefas had since ordered for arrest and prosecution of those behind the Donga killings.

Taraba killing: Tiv Community Seeks Arrests and prosecution of perpetrators

From Godwin Agia, Jalingo

The Tiv Culture and Social Association (TCSA) the umbrella body of the Tiv people of Taraba on Thursday requested security agencies to arrest and prosecute killers of seven Tiv commuters who were traveling from Zaki Biam in Benue to Bali in Taraba.

This is contained in a statement signed by Mr James Baka, President General of the TCSA, and made available to newsmen in Jalingo.

 The statement appealed to the government and security agencies to make available the corpses of the victims to be given befitting burials.

He condemned the gruesome killing of the travelers whom he identified some of the victims as students of the Federal Polytechnic Bali.

"Pathetically, the majority of the people that were killed in the bus were either students from Fed. Polytechnic Bali or family members of Federal Civil Servants residing in Bali who have nothing to do with Taraba issues.

"We, therefore, condemn the killing of these innocent commuters and call on Taraba State Government and security agencies to deploy every available means to make available the corps of the already slain passengers who boarded the bus, so that they could be given befitting burials. 

"We also call on Security agencies to ensure immediate arrest of all the suspects and launch an investigation into the issues to prosecute the culprits for the crimes committed.

"The State Government should expedite efforts to resettle displaced persons along the area to prevent criminals from taking advantage of the deserted places to perpetrate their criminal activities,'' it said.

It will be recalled that an 18 seater bus with registration number AKP 237  BENUE, which took off from Zaki Biam to Maihula in Bali was attacked by the suspected Vigilante Group along the Gankwe Mararaba road in Donga local government area of Taraba state.

Taraba State Government says environmental sustainability will be prioritized

 

From Godwin Agia, Jalingo 

The Taraba State Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Hajiya Aishat Barde on Thursday said the state remained committed to environmental sustainability and climate action agreements it entered into both at the local and global level.

In a chat with journalists in Jalingo, Barde said the state government has adopted climate change mitigation measures such as subsidizing clean energy alternatives, planting trees, and promoting energy efficiency to reduce the impact of climate change on the environment and humanity.

The Commissioner explained that her Ministry has embarked on a public campaign to educate citizens about climate change, its effects, and practical steps to mitigate its impact and called on the citizens to heed the protocol on heat wave preparedness, water conservation, and sustainable practices.

According to her, “We have established early warning systems to help alert citizens on extreme weather events and provide timely information on temperature changes, health risks, and necessary precautions.

“Government is developing a climate action plan for the state that outlines strategies for mitigating the impacts of climate change. These plans include measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, promote renewable energy, and enhance resilience.

“We have also embarked on community-based initiatives to raise awareness, promote sustainable practices, and encourage climate resilience among the rural people. In addition, we are encouraging tree planting and green spaces to reduce urban heat island effects,” she said.

On the damages caused by miners in the state, Barde said the government was committed to holding miners accountable for environmental damages, adding that legal actions and rehabilitation efforts are underway to recover and restore affected communities.

While commending Governor Agbu Kefas for his commitment towards the Greening Taraba Project, Barde said the tree-planting initiative campaigns across the 16 Local Government Areas were aimed at combating deforestation across the state.

Taraba chieftaincy crisis: Kuteb drags State government to court, denies peace talk

 
From Godwin Agia, Jalingo

Stakeholders of the Kuteb ethnic group in Takum local government area Tuesday dragged the Governor of Taraba State, the Taraba State government, and the Attorney General of Taraba State before a Jalingo High court challenging the appointment of three third-class Chiefs and the proposed appointment of a first-class Chief of Takum on a rotational basis.  
The plaintiffs, Sule Audu, Auwal Ibrahim, and Rimamnyang  Boyi Ahmadu in an originating summons through their counsel, Barrister, Festus Idepefo (SAN) urged Justice Ali Bappa Abbare of the Jalingo High Court to among others, issue a declaration of the court that the Taraba State Establishment of one rotational first class chief and three third class chiefs Law No 01 of 2024  did not establish new chiefdoms in Takum.
It also sought a declaration of the court that the Taraba State Establishment of one rotational first-class chief and three third-class chiefs Law No 01 of 2024 did not establish the office or stool of Chief of Takum of first-class grade to which a person can be appointed.
The suit also seeks a declaration of the court that the Taraba State Establishment of one rotational first class chief and three third class chiefs Law No 01 of 2024 did not create the stool or office of the chief of Takum who can be appointed a president in the council of the Takum traditional council.
It also seeks the declaration of the court that the Taraba State Establishment of one rotational first class chief and three third class chiefs Law No 01 did not establish the stool of' "Gar' Chamba, 'Tsohon' Jukun and "we" Kuteb Takum to which any person can be appointed.
Another prayer was for the court to make a declaration that the Taraba State Establishment of one rotational first class chief and three third class chiefs Law No 01 of 2024 that there exists the stools or offices of 'Gar' Chamba, 'Tsohon'Jukun and "Kwe" Kuteb Takum to constitute the membership of Takum Traditional Council established by the provisions of section 3 (1) (a) of the Taraba State Establishment of one rotational first class chief and three third class chiefs Law of 2024.
The plaintiffs also urged the court to make a declaration that the Taraba State Establishment of one rotational first class chief and three third class chiefs Law No 01 of 2024 did not abolish the stool or office of Ukwe Takum.
It also prayed the court to declare that the provisions of section 18 of the Taraba State Establishment of one rotational first class chief and three third class chiefs Law No 01 of 2024 did not override the provision of all extant laws relating to the existence and recognition of Ukwe Takum. 
Above all, the suit seeks an order restraining the defendants from interfering with the stool and palace of Ukwe Takum which evolves for native laws and customs of the Kuteb people.
It further sought an order restraining the defendants from demolishing the palace of Ukwe Takum or taking any step to wipe away the Ukwe Takum palace.
They further seek an order restraining the defendants from interfering or exhuming the remains of past Ukwe Takum namely;  Ukwe Ahmadu Gankwe, Hassan Gankwe, Ibrahim Zorto  Audu Gankwe, and Ali Ibrahim Kuffang 11 from their graves in the premises of Ukwe Takum palace.
The suit finally seeks an order of perpetual injunction, restraining the defendants from appointing any person into any of the offices listed as members of the Takum traditional council by section 3 (1) (a) of the Taraba State Establishment of one rotational first class chief and three third class chiefs Law No 01 of 2024 as no chiefdom is created for their existence by the said law.
Meanwhile, The Kuteb Yatso of Nigeria (KYN) the umbrella body of Kuteb world wide has disassociated itself from the purported publication by a faceless group that addresses itself as the Kuteb Peace Movement.
Comrade Emma Ukwen, President of the KYN said during an interaction with journalists in Jalingo on Tuesday that it was only the Kuteb Yatso that was mandated to speak for the  Kuteb people and not any group.
He described the purported Kuteb Peace Movement as a faceless and nonexistent entity, created by government propagandists to confuse the unsuspecting public.
Ukwen insisted that the  Danladi Rimande who claimed to be the coordinator of the pseudo group is an imaginary name. "We are already in court so why should anybody in his senses fabricate a story to say that we have conceded to the charade done by the government "?.
The KYN President called on the public to disregard that press statement coming from a group that had been instigated by the enemies of the Kuteb people to downplay the serious injustice mated against them.
President Ukwen said, "I know that the said Danladi Rimande is a ghost, a faceless entity doing the bidding of the state government and Chamba tribe. If they are a true group, let them show their faces and let the Kuteb people see them." He said.
According to Ukwen, the said group even contradicted itself by saying that the Kuteb put up demands and said they have accepted the rotational system for the First Class Chief and still said that they are trying to bring Kuteb elders to dialogue. The question is, who accepted the rotational system and made the so-called demands" he queried. 
"The KYN which is the umbrella body of Kuteb worldwide is the only body authorized to speak for the Kuteb. For the avoidance of doubts, the KYN is not aware of any such dialogue or demands and has stated our position, which reflects the position of Kuteb Worldwide as it is built in the suite at a Jalingo High Court.
"We want to state categorically that the Kuteb people worldwide are united in our resolve to resist any attempt by the state government to bastardize the revered stool of Ukwe Takum. We are a peace-loving people and will explore every legal option to scuttle this broad daylight injustice.
"We also call on the general public to be wary of this propaganda by the government and its machinery to create a false impression that the Kuteb has accepted this invitation to chaos.
"We would never allow anyone to destroy our heritage. Posterity will never forgive us. Generations unborn will not forgive us if we allow this to be" Ukwen insisted.

NYSC tells Corps members how to escape future frustration

 

From Godwin Agia, Jalingo

The Corps members posted to serve in Taraba State have been charged to embrace the Skills Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) program of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) with enthusiasm to escape future frustration.

NYSC Taraba State Coordinator, Mr Anthony Nzoka, gave the advice on Monday while addressing the 2024 Batch 'A' stream 1 Corps members at the Sibere orientation camp in Ardo-kola local government area of the State.

Mr Anthony regretted that lack of practical skills had contributed largely to unemployment in Nigeria.

He noted that Identifying and advancing skills and business ideas could enhance self-reliance among Corps members and make them future employers of labor.

"Gentlemen, you have been introduced to some skills, I encourage you to please do not stop it after your orientation course, wherever you find yourself enlist in one of the skills and try to learn and know how to turn it into money-making ventures.

"Our esteemed trainers, please do not abundant the Corps members in the middle of the way, train them, teach them how the skills they have learned can be transformed into money ventures.

"You are not yet professional, you have just been introduced, I encourage you to continue the training after the orientation course. The NYSC is partnering with several agencies for funding of the skills learned, at the cause of your service year those funding options will be open to you to participate.

"I'm confident with the attainment of these attributes, through constructive engagement, you would sooner than later be a CEO and wealth creator.

Earlier, the head of SAED, Mr Japheth Saidu challenged Corps members to develop skills capable of enhancing the actualization of their dreams.

Japheth maintained "You must recognize that you are part of Nigeria either; you can't afford to be in the same position as those that did not go to school," he said.