Taraba State Government Holds Reception for New Chief of Takum
By Hassan Garba
Takum town in Taraba State came alive on Saturday the 17th of May 2024 as dignitaries from across the country including Creme de la creme of the society, Governors of Edo, and Plateau states were also in Takum town to witness the grand reception in honour of the new first-class Chief of Takum, Barr. Sopiya Ahmadu Gboshi who was been presented with a staff of office by the Governor of the state Dr Agbu Kefas, recently.
Also in attendance at the occasion were Taraba’s famous General TY Danjuma who was the chairman of the occasion, Former Plateau state Governor, David Jonah Jang, Former Taraba state Governor, Rev Jolly Nyame, former Acting Governor of Taraba State, Sani Abubakar Danladi and several others.
The colourful event which is believed to be the most attended event in Takum in recent times, featured cultural matches pass from various ethnic groups displaying their rich cultural heritage.
Speaking at the event, the Governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas said the vacant throne of Takum was a symbol of division for nearly three decades and said now is the time for reconciliation, unity, and progress.
He said following a judicial pronouncement, he issued a staff of office to the new Chief in Jalingo, the state capital.
He stressed that the decision underscored the steadfast respect of his administration for the rule of law and dedication to maintaining peace and order.
He implored all citizens to remain law abiding and continue to support his administration as he has realistic plans for the development of Takum and Taraba state, particularly aimed at empowering the youths and women.
The Governor recognized the suffering people displaced by crisis and attacks and said his action would be guided by their needs, promising to provide security to enable them to return to their ancestral homes.
He announced the launch of an endowment fund for the rebuilding of Takum and other places affected by the crisis and said the funds will focus on infrastructural development, education, health, and women and youth empowerment among others.
Dr Kefas added that the theme of the ceremony which was embracing unity as a new dawn for peace and progress, calling on all to work together towards the journey to a brighter Takum.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the occasion, retired Gen TY Danjuma announced that he will establish a vocational school in the state with the assistance of some Germans to address the problem of unemployment confronting the contemporary society.
Gen TY Danjuma saluted the Governor of Taraba State, Dr Agbu Kefas for breaking the longtime jinx by appointing a chief in Takum and described him as a true Democrat who followed due process in the appointment.
He urged the new Chief of Takum to rule without bias and treat everyone equally.
The Governor of Edo State, Dr Godwin Obaseki who was the Special Guest of Honour at the reception, felicitated with the people of Takum over the new Chief and expressed hope that his emergence will usher in an era of peace, and prosperity in Takum and Taraba State.
He extolled the natural endowments of the state and said it is only when there is calm that it will be harnessed.
In his goodwill message, on behalf of the Royal Fathers in Taraba State, the Emir of Muri, Alhaji Abbas Njidda Tafida reiterated their commitment to the unity of the state as well as their loyalty to the Governor Agbu Kefas administration as it has shown commitment to good governance.
On his part, the new Chief of Takum, Barr Sopiya Ahmadu Gboshi called on all the people to join hands with him to build Takum irrespective of tribe and other differences.
He pledged to foster security to guarantee peace and development.
With this development, one can say Takum is on the path of prosperity provided the people sustain peace and unity.
