By Sylvanus Viashima, Jalingo
Following tremendous success by the State Government in tackling pervasive insecurity in Taraba State, the forum of Tiv political appointees in the state yesterday passed vote of confidence on the state Governor Agbu Kefas and urge the people of the state to support the governor to achieve his ‘moving forward agenda’ for the state.
Leader of the forum Philip Ananum told journalists at a press conference in Jalingo yesterday that the forum deemed it necessary to make the public commendation for his people oriented and inclusive leadership after due consultation with their people.
The forum said that the interventions of the governor in education, health, security, welfare of workers among others have made life easier for the people.
Ananum assured the governor that the Tiv community in the state was solidly behind him and urge him to disregard the supposed Tiv/Kuteb coalition against him.
“We extend our heartfelt gratitude to His Excellency, Agbu Kefas, for his inclusive governance and for appointing several Tiv sons and daughters into political offices in his administration. This is unprecedented in the history of our dear state and signals a new chapter of genuine recognition, inclusion, and empowerment of the Tiv people of Taraba State.
“Beyond appointments, Kefas has demonstrated uncommon political will and leadership that has brought measurable development across key sectors in the state. Under his watch, Taraba state has witnessed significant improvements in security, especially in previously volatile flashpoints.
“Particularly commendable is his open-door policy and sincere engagement with Tiv traditional and community leaders. His recent consultations with His Royal Majesty, James Ortese Torzua Ayatse, Tor Tiv (V) and other stakeholders regarding the plight of the displaced Tiv communities in Southern Taraba is both historic and heartwarming. We call for the continuity of this dialogue to ensure the timely return of our displaced people.
“In view of the achievements recorded so far, and following extensive consultations with our communities, we, the Tiv political appointees, community leaders, and grassroots stakeholders in Taraba state, hereby pass a vote of confidence in Agbu Kefas. We reaffirm our unflinching support for his administration and wish to place on record that, based on his demonstrated fairness, goodwill, and performance, the Tiv people will stand solidly behind him in 2027 and beyond
“It is against this backdrop of progress and inclusion that we now turn to address the issue of the so-called Kuteb/Tiv Political Coalition. Our position on this matter is not to cast aspersions or generate controversy, but to provide clarity and set the records straight in the public space regarding recent narratives surrounding the so-called Kuteb/Tiv Political Coalition.
“We acknowledge that all citizens have a constitutional right to freedom of association and expression. However, we wish to disassociate ourselves from the Kuteb/Tiv Political Coalition, which has been promoted in the media as though it carries the collective mandate or endorsement of the entire Tiv people of Taraba state.
“This perception is misleading and does not reflect the diversity and independence of thought within Tiv communities. The Tiv are a politically conscious and numerically significant group in Taraba. It is unrealistic to suggest that such a people can be confined to a singular political movement or coalition especially one that appears to be evolving without broad consultation among key Tiv stakeholders. It would be erroneous to assume or propagate that such alignments speak for the majority or the entire Tiv people of Taraba State and command electoral dominance.
“As stakeholders with responsibilities in our communities, we understand the delicate nature of Taraba’s ethnic landscape and the need for cautious, inclusive politics. We therefore caution against narratives that could inflame passions or distort facts”.
The forum commended journalists in the State for been “exceptionally objective, fair and accurate in their reportage” and for working tirelessly for peace and stability of the state.