A youth group, Southern Taraba Youth Coalition for Peace (STYCOP), on Sunday, kicked against the governor Agbu Kefas’ decision to be renamed, and continue renaming Taraba state government facilities after Gen. T.Y Danjuma.
Nigerian Tribune reports that governor Agbu Kefas had earlier on the 4th, Oct. 2024, disclosed during the remainder of the Taraba state government house Jalingo after General T.Y Danjuma that the decision was in appreciation of Danjuma’s developmental achievements in Taraba.
According to Kefas, the state government found the elder statesman’s significant contributions to nation building, and vital role in the development of Taraba, worthy enough to rename the facility after him as a form of appreciation.
Tribune also reports that the state governor’s Lodge in Abuja was earlier renovated and renamed after T.Y Danjuma.
Meanwhile, the group in a press statement signed by the president, Amb. Rikwense Muri, after the Saturday remaining of the governor’s Lodge in Wukari, Wukari local government, after the elder statesman, expressed dissatisfaction over the governor’s decision, described the action as unhealthy for the unity of Tarabans.
The group while insisting that the decision was inappropriate, capable of exacerbating the existing ethnic and religious divisions within the state, alleged that T.Y’s involvement in local chieftaincy disputes and political maneuverings was a clear perception of division.
“We wish to express our deep concerns regarding the recent decision by Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, to rename the Taraba State Government House in Jalingo and the Governor’s Lodges in Abuja and Wukari as T.Y. Danjuma House.
“While we acknowledge General T.Y. Danjuma’s contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, we must emphasize that honoring 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.
The perception of General Danjuma as an agent of division raises serious questions about the implications of this decision for all citizens of Taraba.
“Naming government institutions should reflect our collective values and aspirations as a diverse community. Other states in Nigeria have refrained from naming their government houses after individuals, regardless of their historical significance. For instance, Katsina State has not honored Muhammadu Buhari, and Niger State has not named its Government House after General Ibrahim Babangida. These examples illustrate a commitment to unity over personal accolades.
“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. His involvement in local chieftaincy disputes and political maneuverings has already raised concerns among the populace.
“As representatives of the youth in Southern Taraba, we urge Governor Kefas to prioritize inclusivity in all government actions. Institutions like the Government House should symbolize unity among all citizens, Christians, Muslims, pagans, and individuals from various ethnic backgrounds.
“We reject the notion that the Government House should bear the name of someone whose actions have been linked to division and conflict. Instead, we call for a naming process that reflects the diverse history and values of all Tarabans, promoting peace and cooperation.
“We call on Governor Agbu Kefas to reconsider this decision to portray unity among ethnic in Taraba.”
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