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On January 6, 2026, the Taraba Tiv Youths Development Association (TATIYODA Worldwide) issued a strongly worded open letter to Governor Agbu Kefas, accusing him of downplaying the ongoing killings of Tiv people in the state. Signed by Comr. Ephraim Tordue Kumaga, the association’s president, the letter described the governor’s alleged remarks as “profoundly troubling” and incompatible with his constitutional oath to protect all residents irrespective of ethnicity.
The youths highlighted the decades-long Tiv-Jukun conflict, pointing out that thousands of lives have been lost, communities destroyed, and entire generations traumatized over the years. They warned that any perceived indifference from the state government risks emboldening perpetrators of violence, deepening mistrust among ethnic groups, and potentially escalating into a full-blown humanitarian crisis. Specific areas mentioned include Ahmadu and Chanchanji in Takum Local Government Area, where recent incidents have heightened tensions.
TATIYODA demanded an immediate clarification or retraction from Governor Kefas regarding the attributed statements. They also called for the urgent deployment of security forces to vulnerable communities, the establishment of an inclusive peace and reconciliation process involving traditional leaders, civil society, religious bodies, women, and youth representatives, and thorough investigations with prosecutions carried out without regard to ethnic origin.
Concluding on a firm note, Comr. Kumaga urged the governor to “choose peace, protect lives, and lead as a governor for all Tarabans,” emphasizing that history will judge leaders not by their ethnic identity but by their commitment to safeguarding the most vulnerable during times of crisis. As ethnic tensions remain a sensitive issue in Taraba, this letter underscores growing frustrations among Tiv youths and renews appeals for equitable governance and lasting peace in the state.
