Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State is facing scrutiny following remarks made during his Christmas Day address, in which he explained why he has not intervened in recent attacks against Tiv communities in the state.
The statement, delivered in Wukari on December 25, 2025, responded to mounting complaints from Tiv residents regarding repeated terrorist attacks and escalating violence in southern Taraba, including Takum, Wukari, and Donga local government areas.
Governor Kefas reportedly cited appeals from influential Tiv figures urging him to act but stated that these would not compel him to intervene.
He also indicated that efforts to establish military forward operating bases in Ikyaior and Jandeikyura villages, areas largely inhabited by Tiv communities, would proceed despite opposition over ancestral land claims.
In response, the President of the Taraba State branch of the Mdzough U Tiv (MUT), Professor H. Agere, expressed shock and concern over the governor’s stance in a statement made available to journalists on Tuesday in Jalingo.
He criticised the lack of engagement between the state government and Tiv leaders in addressing longstanding ethnic tensions, particularly between Tiv and Jukun communities in Wukari Local Government Area.
Professor Agere also highlighted recent attacks in Donga, where over 25 Tiv farmers were reportedly killed by Fulani herders in retaliation for protesting against crop destruction.
He said the governor had neither condemned the attacks nor indicated any effort to coordinate security responses through state agencies.
“The governor is the chief executive and custodian of the state’s security. His silence and refusal to intervene raise questions about his commitment to protecting the lives and property of all Taraba residents, regardless of ethnicity,” Prof. Agere said.
The MUT president further criticised the handling of displaced Tiv populations in Wukari and surrounding areas, citing instances in December 2025 where returning Tiv residents were reportedly killed and their homes destroyed, despite the presence of security personnel.
Agere called for adherence to constitutional procedures regarding land acquisition for military bases, warning against unilateral actions that disregard ancestral claims. He also condemned military actions against civilians, including women attempting to retrieve farm produce from cleared fields.
He urged Governor Kefas to take a firm stance in protecting Tiv communities and ensuring justice and equity, while emphasising the need for dialogue to address the cycle of violence in southern Taraba.
Taraba governor criticised over inaction on Tiv community attacks
