By Sanee Yarima
Governor Agbu Kefas has issued a stern warning to traditional rulers in Taraba State over acts threatening peace and development, as the state marks its 34th anniversary of creation.
Mr. Yusuf Sanda, the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, made this known in a press release issued on Thursday 28th, 2025.
Addressing royal fathers in Jalingo, the Governor decried the indiscriminate sale of land, illegal issuance of mining consent letters, involvement in illegal mining, uncontrolled conferment of chieftaincy titles, and unvetted appointments of Ardos; many of whom he noted have become architects of farmer–herder conflicts and collaborators with bandits.
Governor Kefas declared that his administration will no longer tolerate such practices, stressing that any ruler found culpable will face disciplinary action, including suspension, deposition, or prosecution. “No person, no matter how highly placed, is above the law of Taraba State. Where the law is silent, I will invoke the doctrine of necessity to protect the people,” he warned.
While calling for discipline, the Governor emphasised partnership, not rivalry between government and traditional rulers. He urged them to protect their domains against criminality, consult the government before conferring titles or appointing Ardos, and work with the state to foster peace and development.
Governor Kefas reassured citizens that his government is sensitive to their pains and is addressing their needs; security, education, healthcare, infrastructure, and jobs, systematically and step by step, as resources allow.
He called on all stakeholders to see the anniversary as a turning point, reaffirming: “Leadership is a sacred trust from God and the people. Abuse of that trust will no longer be tolerated. Let us secure Taraba, let us unite Taraba, and let us move Taraba forward.”
