From Sylvanus Viashima, Jalingo
The Southern Taraba Youth Coalition for Peace (STYCOP) on Sunday, April 20, condemned Governor Agbu Kefas’s decision to rename the Taraba State Government House in Jalingo and the governor’s lodges in Abuja, Wukari, and Takum after General T.Y. Danjuma.
In a statement issued to TheSun.ng, STYCOP National President Amb. Rikwense Muri said, “While we acknowledge General T.Y. Danjuma’s contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, we must emphasise that honouring an active political figure with such a significant renaming is not only inappropriate but may also exacerbate the existing ethnic and religious divisions within our state.”
Muri argued that Danjuma’s perceived partisanship and controversial actions make the honour unsuitable.
Muri stated, “Naming government institutions should reflect our collective values and aspirations as a diverse community.” He cited Katsina and Niger States, which avoided naming government houses after Muhammadu Buhari and Ibrahim Babangida, respectively, to promote unity.
The coalition expressed concern that Danjuma’s involvement in chieftaincy disputes and political conflicts could heighten tensions, noting: “In a state where various government panels have reported on ethnic and religious conflicts, associating our Government House with a controversial figure like Danjuma could further inflame tensions rather than foster the unity we strive for.”
STYCOP urged Kefas to prioritise inclusivity and reconsider the decision, concluding, “We believe it is imperative to honour figures who have contributed positively to the unity and progress of Taraba State, fostering an environment where all citizens feel represented and valued.”