Senatorial Aspirant Seeks End To Tiv-Jukun Crisis, Supports Women Inclusion

An aspirant for the Taraba South Senatorial District, Dr Jesse Ashumate Adi, has canvassed stronger community documentation, improved intelligence gathering and inclusive governance to tackle the lingering Tiv-Jukun and herders’ crisis in parts of Southern Taraba.

Shortly after obtaining his nomination and expression of interest forms at the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) in Jalingo, Adi described the security situation in the zone as terrible.

He lamented that several communities had been displaced by recurring communal clashes and attacks by suspected herders.

According to him, the long-standing Tiv-Jukun conflict could be resolved if government institutions function effectively and residents are properly documented within their host communities.

“I believe strongly that people must live together peacefully. If institutions are properly working, we would not have this kind of crisis,” he said.

He said unlike the neighbouring Benue State, whose residents there are properly registered and documented, making it easier to identify criminal elements, the same profiling is need in Taraba to easily identify intruders.

“You do not see anybody in Benue State staying on land without proper documentation or registration. If Taraba adopts proper documentation of settlers, it will become easier to identify bad eggs when crises occur,” he stated.

He maintained that people should be free to live in any part of the state, but insisted that such residents must be properly registered to ensure accountability and improve security.

“If any evil happens around a place, authorities should be able to trace those living there and hold them responsible. Once people are held accountable for happenings in their environment, there will be fewer crises,” he added.

The aspirant also blamed external interference for worsening the Tiv-Jukun crisis, alleging that attackers often invade Taraba from neighbouring states.

“When communities are united in love and oneness, it becomes difficult for outsiders to cause the kind of crisis we are experiencing,” he added.

On the rising attacks by suspected herders, he urged security agencies to intensify intelligence gathering and proactive operations to prevent further displacement of communities.

“The security agents are supposed to be on high alert and ensure that these attacks are detected before they happen.”

Speaking on women empowerment, the aspirant pledged support for increased female participation in governance, backing the campaign for 35 per cent affirmative representation for women.

“Women are very essential in society. If given the opportunity to serve, we will legislate and support policies that ensure equitable representation for women at all levels,” he said.

He therefore promised to pursue community driven or people centred development, youth empowerment and commercial agriculture if elected to represent Taraba South in the Senate.

“There will be no contracts executed in our communities without involving our people. Communities will participate in managing schools, health facilities and agricultural programmes so that poverty can be reduced,” he said.

He assured the people of Southern Taraba of “a new lease of life” through inclusive leadership and grassroots development.