STYCOP writes Taraba LG Boss over unguarded statements on Tiv traditional leadership
Daniel Mtindiga, Jalingo
The Leadership of Southern Taraba Coalition for Peace (STYCOP), has written an open letter to the chairman, Wukari LGA of Taraba State, challenging the unguarded statements of the Council chairman, Hon Samaila Agbu on the issue of “Ter Tiv Wukari” which was selected by the Tiv people of the area
In the Open letter dated April 5th, 2025, the group noted that The Tiv community was not vying for supremacy over traditional rulership in Wukari but was rather seeking acknowledgment of their cultural leaders.
The group clarified that, “Ter” translated as Father is quite different from Tor Tiv
It noted the Tiv people have their paramount ruler whose, which is the Tor Tiv whose Palace is domiciled in Gboko, Benue State and he is the Paramount Ruler of the Tiv Nation adding that in various Communities, the Title of Ter is used for Local Leaders who serve as cultural and traditional heads.
The chairman further stated that those leaders may be recognized as Paramount Chiefs by the government, as seen in places like Katsina Ala and Makurdi, or they may be local chiefs, as in the case of Tiv communities in Lagos, Abuja, Port Harcourt, and Takum stressing that In Takum, for example, during the reign of Ukwe Ali Ibrahim Kuffang II, Chief Mchivga of Ahmadu Village was appointed as Ter Tiv of Takum and a member of Takum Traditional Council which further solidified the importance of cultural representation in Takum.
“The role of the Ter is crucial for the preservation of Tiv culture and tradition. As an indigenous ethnic group with a rich heritage distinct from that of the Jukuns, the Tiv community possesses the inherent right to elect their leaders without seeking permission from external authorities. It is incumbent upon you, as the Chairman, to engage with the Tiv community as partners in progress, recognizing their leadership and contributions to the local governance landscape.
“I am writing to address your recent press release dated April 2, 2025, in which you appeared to mock the Tiv community in Wukari for having a Ter Tiv of Wukari. This statement reflects a troubling misunderstanding of your responsibilities as a leader and the rights of all citizens in our diverse nation.
“It is essential to recognize that the fundamental rights of Nigerian citizens include the right to live with dignity and to preserve their cultural traditions wherever they reside. This principle is enshrined in our constitution, granting every ethnic group the autonomy to organize and protect their cultural heritage.
“Your assertion that the Tiv community does not deserve recognition is misguided. The Tiv people, like all ethnic groups in Nigeria, have the constitutional right to organize themselves and maintain their cultural identity, irrespective of geographical location.
This right is not merely political; it is a fundamental aspect of their identity.
“Wukari is not unique in this respect. Tiv communities exist across Nigeria, from Lagos to Jalingo, where they uphold their traditions and leadership structures. With the recurrent Jukun/Tiv conflict in Wukari, does it make sense to you that the Tiv community to live in Wukari without a Father and a rallying point to interface on their behalf with government and other communities in the matters of peace, security and Intercultural dialogue? Haba Honourable Chairman! It is vital to understand that mutual respect is the cornerstone of peaceful coexistence. Attempting to impose one culture over another undermines the very fabric of our diverse society.
“Moreover, various ethnic groups, including the Igbos and Yorubas, successfully organize themselves in cities across the country without any harassment from anyone. This practice fosters community engagement and enhances governmental collaboration. In Takum, for instance, diverse ethnic leaders work together under the Ukwe Takum to promote peace and address conflicts effectively. We have Sarki Hausawa, Ter Tiv, Kuru Kpanten, Chamba Chief, Igbo Community leader, Yoruba Community leader,”the letter read in parts.
Muri cautioned Hon.Agbu saying that,his public mockery of the Tiv community’s leadership only highlighted a lack of understanding of his constitutional duties and the principles of intercultural dialogue essential for peace building in our multicultural society.
He however , urged him to reflect on his approach to fostering an inclusive society that values love, peace, and mutual respect emphasizing that,such an approach will significantly contribute to the security and development of Wukari City while stating they will not stand by as political leaders jeopardize the fragile peace they have worked hard to maintain in Southern Taraba.
