PEACE ADVOCACY GROUP HAILS BALI STAKEHOLDERS
ON APPOINTMENT OF COMMISSIONER
A group known as Taraba Tiv Peace Advocacy Group has commended Bali Local Government political stakeholders for considering Habu James Philip, a Tiv man, for the position of Commissioner from Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State.
It also appreciated the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas for giving Habu James Philip an opportunity to serve in his cabinet.
This note of commendation was contained in a group’s press release signed by the group’s interim Leader, Elder Shaakàa T. Adagba and made available to newsmen in Jalingo, Taraba State capital.
Chief Shaakaa T. Adagba, Interim Leader, Taraba Tiv Peace Advocacy Group
In the release, Chief Shaakaa Adagba stated that the Taraba Tiv Peace Advocacy Group, is gladden by the gesture of the Bali elders and stakeholders for their choice of a Tiv man for such a very important appointment, adding that it’s a demonstration of love for one another, fair play and unity in diversity.
“As far as we can remember, this is the first time that such a choice is made, where a Tiv man was considered by the Bali political stakeholders for an appointment of this nature. The Tiv people of Bali have come a long way. They are highly organized and they are known for their loyalty and support for governments in power. Therefore, considering them for the position is a welcome development.
“Such a gesture is a symbol of giving to the people a sense of belonging as well as a demonstration of unity in diversity. We call on the Tiv community in Bali LGA to see the appointment as a morale booster as well as an encouragement to do more, in terms of loyalty to constituted authorities in the local government in particular and state in general.” The release reads in part.
Chief Shaakaa also commended the gesture of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas, for visiting the Tiv people of Bali LGA and by extension, the entire Tiv people of Taraba State with a sense of love, justice and sense of belonging. He assured that the gesture by the Governor, will be reciprocated with good deeds and support for his administration, by the entire Tiv people of Taraba State.
“Although it’s from Bali LGA, the appointment represents the interest of the entire Tiv people in Taraba State. With this, our interest as a people, is recognized and protected. Consequently, we call all the Tiv people in the state, to look beyond their political differences and give the Commissioner, Ministry of Poverty Alleviation, Honourable Habu James Philip the quality of support that will make him to succeed.” He stated.
While praying that God should give Honourable Habu Jame Philip, the grace to succeed on his job, Chief Shaakaa further called on the Commissioner, to serve justice to all Tarabans, even as he is already aware that his services are for the common good of all in the State.
Taraba Tiv Peace Advocacy Group, According to Chief Shaakaa, is a nongovernmental organization, aimed at deepening peace and harmonious relationship among the Tiv people of Taraba State, bridging the gap of ethnic divide and encouraging peaceful coexistence across the diverse ethnic interests in the state.
