Gov Kefas Warns Traditional Rulers Against Acts Threatening Peace as Taraba Marks 34th Anniversary.
By Christiana Babayo.
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has cautioned traditional rulers in the state against practices undermining peace and development, declaring that his administration will no longer condone such actions.
The governor issued the warning on Thursday in Jalingo while addressing royal fathers as part of activities marking Taraba’s 34th anniversary of creation.
Dr. Kefas expressed concern over what he described as worrisome trends, including the indiscriminate sale of land, illegal issuance of mining consent letters, direct involvement in illegal mining, uncontrolled conferment of chieftaincy titles, and unregulated appointments of Ardos.
He noted that many of these practices had fueled farmer–herder clashes and provided cover for banditry in the state.
The governor warned that any traditional ruler found culpable would face sanctions ranging from suspension and deposition to 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,” Kefas said.
While stressing the need for discipline, the governor emphasized that his relationship with traditional rulers should be built on partnership, not rivalry.
He urged them to guard their domains against criminality, seek government approval before conferring chieftaincy titles or appointing Ardos, and collaborate with the state to entrench peace and development.
Governor Kefas further reassured citizens that his administration is steadily addressing their needs in the areas of security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and job creation, noting that progress would continue step by step as resources permit.
He described leadership as a sacred trust from God and the people, warning that the abuse of such trust would no longer be tolerated.
Kefas Warns Traditional Rulers Against Undermining Peace.
Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has warned traditional rulers in the state against acts that threaten peace and development as the state marks its 34th anniversary.
Speaking in Jalingo, the governor decried the indiscriminate sale of land, illegal mining activities, unchecked conferment of titles, and unregulated appointments of Ardos, which he said have fueled conflicts and aided banditry.
He cautioned that any ruler found guilty would face suspension, deposition, or prosecution, stressing that no one is above the law.
Kefas, however, emphasized partnership with traditional rulers, urging them to protect their communities and work with government to foster peace and progress.
Reassuring citizens, the governor said his administration is addressing challenges in security, education, healthcare, and jobs step by step, calling on all stakeholders to unite and move Taraba forward.
