By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo
The displaced community of Chanchanji Ward in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State has commended Governor Agbu Kefas and his Benue State counterpart, Hyacinth Alia, for their visit to the area to ensure the return of peace.
In a press statement signed by Hon. Justin Aondoaseer Tyopuusu, Special Adviser to Governor Kefas on Digital Economy and State Coordinator of the Made in Nigeria Special Project, on behalf of the community, the visit was described as a restoration of hope for lasting peace.
The statement noted that Governor Kefas’ visit alongside Governor Alia was not merely symbolic but a strong demonstration of leadership, solidarity and inter-state cooperation.
“We wish to sincerely commend His Excellency, the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, for his courageous and compassionate visit to Chanchanji Ward in Takum Local Government Area following four months of painful security challenges that have displaced families and strained livelihoods.
“The Governor’s visit, alongside his Benue State counterpart, Hyacinth Alia, was not merely symbolic; it was a strong demonstration of leadership, solidarity and inter-state cooperation. Their joint commitment to strengthening security along the borders of Taraba and Benue states is both timely and strategic in addressing the root causes of recurring tensions in the area.
“Their visit to Chanchanji has rekindled hope and strengthened the path to lasting peace.”
The community particularly commended the two governors for agreeing to set up a joint peace committee comprising representatives from both states to work toward lasting security solutions.
“This collaborative approach reflects maturity in leadership and a clear understanding that sustainable peace requires dialogue, coordination and shared responsibility,” the statement added.
Hon. Tyopuusu, on behalf of the Chanchanji residents, described the governor’s pledge to deploy security personnel to enable farmers return safely to their homes and farmlands as a restoration of confidence among the displaced population.
“Governor Kefas’ pledge to deploy security personnel to enable farmers return safely to their homes and farmlands, as well as provide relief materials to displaced persons, has restored confidence among our people and sent a reassuring message that government stands firmly with them.
“In moments of crisis, leadership must be visible and decisive. Governor Kefas has once again shown that the safety and welfare of citizens remain his top priority.
The renewed security assurances, cross-border cooperation and humanitarian commitments mark a critical step toward stabilising affected communities and rebuilding trust,” the statement said.
The Chanchanji residents also commended the successful conduct of the APC ward, local government and state congresses across Taraba State.
“We heartily congratulate His Excellency, Governor Agbu Kefas, on the successful conduct of the APC ward, local government and state congresses across Taraba State. The orderly and peaceful exercise reflects organisational maturity and grassroots strength.
“We also congratulate the newly elected State Chairman, Abubakar Bawa, and our dear daughter, Margaret Mchivga, the State Women Leader, who hails from Chanchanji Ward.
“Their emergence signals renewed direction and strengthened mobilisation capacity for the party. We are confident that under their leadership, unity and inclusive participation will be further consolidated.”
The statement urged all stakeholders to support the governors’ peace-building efforts and work collectively toward sustainable security and progress in Taraba and Benue states.
