Tiv Supreme Council seeks action on Wukari IDPs, calls for joint peace committee

The Tiv Supreme Council in Taraba State has called on Governor Agbu Kefas to address the plight of displaced Tiv individuals, particularly those in Wukari Local Government Area who have yet to return to their ancestral communities.

During the 5th (Ijir Tamen) expanded meeting held at the Traditional Council leader’s office in Bali, the council also requested the Taraba State government to establish a joint negotiation committee.

This committee should consist of individuals of integrity from both the Jukun and Tiv communities to facilitate dialogue, resolve outstanding issues, and enable the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

In a communiqué issued at the conclusion of the meeting, which took place from November 26 to November 29, 2025, and signed by Ter Bali II, Chairman of the Taraba State Tiv Traditional Council, Dr. David Gbaa (Gum-begha U Tiv Taraba), and Secretary, Zaki Targema Ukange, the council commended Governor Agbu Kefas for his efforts in addressing insecurity, especially regarding the recent attacks by herdsmen on Tiv communities in the Chanchanji Ward of Takum LGA.

They urged the governor to intensify efforts to ensure the safety of communities for the collective good of all citizens.

The council also called for stronger collaboration and peaceful coexistence between the Tiv and their neighbours, noting that such cooperation would enhance security, promote good neighbourliness, and foster development across Taraba State.

“While the (Ijir Tamen) commend Governor Agbu Kefas, for his efforts in addressing insecurity, particularly the recent herders’ attacks on Tiv communities in the Chanchanji Ward of Takum LGA, we appeal to Governor Agbu Kefas to address the plight of displaced Tiv people, especially in the Wukari LGA, who have not gain access to their ancestral homes in the local government since 2019.

“The council urged the Taraba state government to constitute a joint negotiation committee, comprising persons of integrity, indigenes of Taraba from both Jukun and Tiv communities to facilitate dialogue, resolve outstanding issues, and enable the resettlement of internally displaced persons (IDPs).

“We call for a stronger collaboration and peaceful coexistence between the Tiv and their neighbours. such cooperation would enhance security, promote good neighbourliness, and foster development across Taraba state.

“The council urged Tiv sons and daughters to be security conscious, and promptly share vital information with security agencies, given the heightened security challenges across the country.

“The Ijir Tamen expressed concern over the low level of political participation among Tiv people, particularly those in rural areas. It resolved to constitute a committee that will embark on political education and orientation to encourage massive participation in democratic processes ahead of the 2027 general elections.

“The council called on Tiv people, who are predominantly farmers, to diversify their sources of livelihood and reduce over-reliance on outdated agricultural practices. It frowned at the rising trend of early marriages among young girls in Tiv communities and encouraged parents to prioritise the education of their children, especially the girl-child.

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