The Tiv appointees under the government of Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State and the Tiv Cultural and Social Association, Taraba State, have applauded the governor for restoring peace and allowing internally displaced persons (IDPs) to return to crisis-affected areas of the state.
The appointees and stakeholders, led by chairman Philip Iorpenda Ananum, addressed journalists in Jalingo on Tuesday. They noted that security in the state has significantly improved under the governor’s administration, which has improved farming activities.
The groups also cleared the air over accusations that the Tiv and Kuteb in the state have formed a coalition to oppose the administration of Kefas in the state.
“Our position on this matter is not to cast aspersions or generate controversy, but to provide clarity in the public space regarding recent narratives surrounding the so-called Kuteb/Tiv Political Coalition. As leaders committed to peace, development, and harmonious coexistence among all ethnic nationalities in Taraba State, we believe it is important to address this matter and put the record straight.
“Beyond appointments, Governor Kefas has demonstrated uncommon political will and leadership that has brought measurable development across key sectors in the state. Under his watch, Taraba State has witnessed significant improvements in security, especially in previously volatile flashpoints, which have restored peace, allowed displaced persons to gradually return, and enabled farming, education, and commerce to resume.
The groups also commend the governor’s open-door policy and sincere engagement with Tiv traditional and community leaders, stating that the Kefas’ recent consultations with the Tor Tiv Professor James Ortese Torzua Ayatse, and other stakeholders regarding the plight of the displaced Tiv communities in Southern Taraba are historic and heartening.
“We call for the continuity of this dialogue to ensure the timely return of our displaced people. Against this backdrop of progress and inclusion, we now turn to address the issue of the so-called Kuteb/Tiv Political Coalition.
“We acknowledge that all citizens, regardless of ethnicity or affiliation, have a constitutional right to freedom of association and expression. However, we wish to disassociate ourselves from the Kuteb/Tiv Political Coalition, which has been promoted in the media as though it carries the collective mandate or endorsement of the entire Tiv people of Taraba State.
“This perception is misleading and does not reflect the diversity and independence of thought within Tiv communities. The Tiv are a politically conscious and numerically significant group in Taraba. It is unrealistic to suggest that such people can be confined to a singular political movement or coalition, especially one that appears to be evolving without broad consultation among key Tiv stakeholders. The groups stated.
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