The Supreme Council of Tiv Traditional Leaders in Taraba State has renewed its call for peaceful dialogue as a means to end the protracted conflict between the Tiv and Jukun communities, especially in the southern part of the state.
This was contained in a communiqué issued at the conclusion of a three-day leadership workshop organised for Tiv traditional rulers. The council emphasized the urgent need for dialogue and mutual understanding to resolve the long-standing inter-communal crisis.
The communiqué, jointly signed by the Council Chairman, Chief Dr. David Gbaa Tela, and Secretary, Zaki Targema Ukange, urged Jukun traditional authorities to join hands in seeking peaceful resolutions for the sake of communal harmony and development.
“We urge our Jukun brothers to embrace dialogue. There is no alternative to peace, and only through sincere engagement can we build a lasting foundation for coexistence,” the council stated.
The council lauded Governor Agbu Kefas for what it described as inclusive and fair governance. It noted that the governor’s administration had appointed Tiv indigenes into key positions, a move seen as a step towards equity and unity in the state.
“We commend Governor Kefas’ inclusive governance model, which reflects his commitment to fairness and social justice,” the statement read.
The council appealed to the state government to facilitate the prompt return of displaced Tiv persons to their ancestral homes and speed up infrastructure development in Tiv-dominated communities.
It also advocated for the establishment of a formally recognized Tiv Central Traditional Leadership within the state’s administrative structure.
In its resolutions, the council encouraged traditional leaders to strengthen their conflict resolution skills, embrace transparency, and demonstrate emotional intelligence in leadership. It also emphasized the use of modern technology to enhance community governance and communication.
The council called on all Tiv people in the state to remain united and support only officially recognized traditional leadership, while distancing itself from individuals parading themselves as leaders outside established norms.
“The strength of our people lies in unity, discipline, and respect for constituted traditional authority,” the communiqué added.
The Tiv-Jukun crisis has been a persistent source of tension in Taraba, leading to displacement and loss of lives. The council’s latest position signals a renewed commitment to peacebuilding efforts in the region.
