Gov’s Alleged Remarks On Tiv Crisis: We are Investigating the Context – Taraba Peace Bureau
By Echo Express
The Chairman of the Taraba State Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management, Bishop Innocent Rubiruka Solomon has reacted to the recent media reports regarding a statement credited to Governor Agbu Kefas on the crisis involving some Tiv communities in the state.
The Bureau’s concern is expressed in a Press Release signed by its Chairman, Bishop Innocent Rubiruka Solomon, a copy of which was obtained by Echo Express in Jalingo.
“The Taraba State Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management (TSBPCM) has taken note with serious concern over a publication circulating on social and other media platforms, allegedly quoting His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, as making statements suggesting non-intervention in issues of conflicts and insecurity affecting the Tiv communities in parts of the state.
“The Bureau wishes to categorically state that the said publication is misleading, inflammatory, and does not reflect the position, language, or philosophy of His Excellency, whose administration has consistently demonstrated commitment to peace, inclusiveness, and protection of all residents of Taraba State, irrespective of ethnic or religious background”.
The Chairman stressed that it is on record that the Governor established the Taraba State Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management and appointed several Senior Special Assistants and stakeholders across communities specifically to promote dialogue, early warning, conflict prevention, and peaceful coexistence.
“Further to this, the Taraba State Government has just launched a STRATEGY PLAN as a roadmap to addressing the conflicts in Taraba State. These actions underscores his firm belief that no community should be abandoned to violence or insecurity.
“His Excellency has repeatedly emphasized cooperation, community engagement, and lawful security interventions as essential tools for addressing insecurity”.
Bishop Innocent Solomon therefore noted that any interpretation suggesting indifference to the safety or welfare of any group in Taraba State is therefore a gross misrepresentation.
According to him, the Bureau is currently verifying the source, context, and authenticity of the alleged remarks and urges the public to refrain from spreading unverified reports capable of heightening tension or mistrust among communities.
“The Taraba State Government remains fully committed to:
• Protecting lives and property across all communities
• Promoting dialogue and reconciliation
• Working with security agencies and local stakeholders to address security challenges sustainably”.
The Bureau called on community leaders, media practitioners, and the general public to exercise restraint, rely on verified information, and support ongoing peacebuilding efforts in the state.
