The House Committee on Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs in the Taraba State House of Assembly has committed to ensuring equity among all ethnic groups amidst the enduring dispute over traditional leadership in Takum Local Government Area.
This commitment was declared during a public hearing held on Monday in the State House of Assembly chamber in Jalingo. The hearing was prompted by an executive bill presented by Governor Agbu Kefas, aimed at restructuring the traditional leadership framework in the council.
Representatives from diverse ethnic backgrounds in Takum expressed varied opinions during the public hearing. While some supported the rotational proposal, others, notably the Kuteb ethnic group, advocated for exclusive rights to the traditional throne.
Various ethnic groups conveyed appreciation to the governor for intervening in the prolonged dispute. They urged the committee, led by former Speaker Peter Abel Diah, to ensure fairness and transparency in their deliberations.
Diah, in his address, stressed the significance of unity among the ethnic groups and encouraged them to overcome the animosity and resentment that have plagued the community for years. He reassured the public of the committee’s commitment to finding a lasting solution, emphasizing that the report would undergo thorough consideration by the 24 members of the Assembly.
The traditional throne in Takum has remained unoccupied for the past 26 years, leading to controversies, loss of lives, and property destruction.
