Tiv Group Commends Kefas, Alia over Peace Mission to Southern Taraba
The Tiv Cultural and Social Association (TCSA) in Taraba State has commended the Governors of Taraba and Benue States, Agbu Kefas and Hyacinth Iormem Alia, for their joint visit to troubled communities in Southern Taraba aimed at addressing lingering security challenges in the area.
In a press release issued by the President General of the association, Chief James Chihi Bakah, the Tiv community described the visit to Wukari, Abako and Chanchanji as a “historic” intervention that came at a critical moment when affected communities had suffered prolonged violence and humanitarian distress.
According to the statement, “The joint visit of both governors to Wukari, Abako and Chanchanji came at a critical moment when our communities have endured months and years of painful security challenges that have resulted in the tragic loss of many innocent lives, the displacement of families, disruption of farming activities, and deep humanitarian concerns.”
The association noted that the presence of the two governors in the affected areas went beyond a routine political engagement, describing it as a demonstration of responsible leadership and cooperation.
“For us as Tiv people of Taraba State, the visit of the two governors and the First Class Chiefs was not merely ceremonial. It was a powerful demonstration of responsible leadership, compassion, and inter-state cooperation aimed at restoring peace and stability in the affected communities,” the statement said.
The Tiv group particularly commended Governor Kefas for personally visiting the communities affected by the crisis.
“We particularly commend His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for demonstrating courage and empathy by personally visiting the affected areas. His presence among the people reassured displaced families that the Taraba State Government remains committed to protecting lives, restoring normalcy, and rebuilding the confidence of citizens who have been deeply affected by the crisis.”
It also praised Governor Alia for his collaboration in the peace initiative, describing his participation as a demonstration of regional responsibility.
“Equally commendable is the collaboration shown by Governor Hyacinth Iormem Alia of Benue State, whose participation in the peace mission underscores the shared responsibility of neighbouring states in addressing security challenges affecting border communities. His presence sent a strong message that peace, unity, and mutual coexistence remain the only sustainable path for our people.”
The association further welcomed assurances given during the visit regarding the strengthening of security presence in the affected communities.
“We also note with appreciation the assurances given during the visit regarding the strengthening of security deployments in the affected areas to enable displaced persons return safely to their homes and farms. The provision of relief materials and humanitarian support to those displaced by the crisis has rekindled hope among many families who have endured months of hardship.”
The Tiv community also appreciated the role played by traditional rulers, particularly Ishaku Adda Ali Matakhitswen, Aku Uka of Wukari and Chairman of the Taraba State Council of Chiefs and Emirs.
“At this juncture, the Tiv people of Taraba State wish to express profound appreciation to His Royal Majesty, Ishaku Adda Ali Matakhitswen, the Aku Uka of Wukari and Chairman of the Taraba State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, who has continued to exemplify peacebuilding through leadership anchored on wisdom, restraint, and inclusiveness.”
The statement equally acknowledged the contributions of James Ortese Iorzua Ayatse, Tor Tiv V and Chairman of the Benue State Council of Chiefs, for his consistent support for peace and discipline among the Tiv people.
“Your Majesty, your sacrifices and consistent call for respect for constituted authorities have greatly strengthened peace, discipline, and unity among our people,” the statement added.
According to the TCSA, the cooperation among political, traditional and religious leaders represents a significant step towards resolving the crisis in Southern Taraba.
“The Tiv people of Taraba State believe that the collaborative effort demonstrated by the governors, traditional rulers, and religious leaders represents a significant turning point in the ongoing search for lasting peace in Southern Taraba.”
The association urged communities in the region to support ongoing peace efforts and avoid reprisals.
“At this critical moment, we call on all communities in Southern Taraba to embrace peace and support the ongoing efforts of government, traditional rulers, and security agencies to restore stability. Violence and reprisals will only deepen suffering and prolong the cycle of insecurity that has already caused so much pain to our communities.”
It also appealed to security agencies to sustain the renewed momentum created by the governors’ visit by ensuring the protection of lives and property across the affected areas.
Reaffirming the Tiv community’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, the association stated that dialogue and cooperation remain the only sustainable path to lasting stability in the region.
The statement concluded by once again commending the two governors for their leadership.
“Finally, we once again commend Governors Agbu Kefas and Hyacinth Iormem Alia for their statesmanship, courage, and commitment to addressing the security challenges confronting communities in Southern Taraba. Their joint intervention has rekindled hope and strengthened our collective resolve to pursue lasting peace in the region.”
