Kidnapping, Banditry Our Biggest Threats, Say Taraba Residents

The recently held state-wide grassroots security consultation has revealed cases of kidnapping, banditry, communal clashes, drug abuse and human trafficking as the majority of security threats confronting communities in Taraba State.

The summit, which mass participation by residents across ethnic, religious and party lines, including women and youths, farmers, pastoralists and other business operators/owners from the remote areas, was organised by the state government in the three senatorial districts of the state.

The special adviser to the Governor on Security and Intelligence, Col. Joshua Garbiya Kwelle (rtd), disclosed this when he assessed the outcome of the community engagement exercise to LEADERSHIP in Jalingo.

Kelle said the initiative was designed to develop community-driven solutions to the emerging security challenges.

The governor’s aide said the residents across the state welcomed the government’s decision to engage directly with them, and many acknowledged the significant improvement in security under the current administration, and urged that the efforts be sustained to address emerging threats.

According to him, the overwhelming response from residents underscored their desire to actively participate in shaping security policies affecting their communities.

“The people were happy that the government came to the grassroots to listen to them. They admitted that security in Taraba has improved significantly.

“But they also wanted government to understand the realities in their communities and work with them to find lasting solutions,” he said.

He noted that the consultations saw high participation, with community members eager to discuss security concerns and recommend practical measures to improve safety.

Col. Kwelle said that kidnapping, banditry, communal conflicts, the abuse of illicit drugs and human trafficking were the dominant issues raised during the engagements, adding that the challenges mirror the broader security situation across the country.

He, however, maintained that the Taraba state government had made measurable progress in reducing insecurity through deliberate investments and sustained collaboration with security agencies and local communities.

“What makes Taraba different is that security has remained one of Governor Agbu Kefas’ top priorities. Without security, there can be no meaningful development or social interaction. Since assuming office, the Governor has introduced several measures that are yielding positive results,” he said.

The security adviser said the improved security situation has enabled residents to move more freely and farmers to return to their farmlands, but acknowledged that the fight against crime is far from over.

“We are not saying insecurity has been eliminated, but we have reduced it considerably, and we will continue working until it is brought to the barest minimum,” he added.

Col. Kwelle reaffirmed the government’s commitment to an inclusive security strategy, saying every resident has a role to play in safeguarding lives and property.

He said the administration would continue to work closely with traditional rulers, community leaders, women, youths, farmers, artisans, fishermen and persons with disabilities to strengthen intelligence gathering and sustain peace across the state.

“We believe that everybody matters in securing Taraba. Every citizen has valuable information and a role to play, and the Governor has created an avenue for every voice to be heard in our collective effort to keep the state safe,” he said.