Taraba Governor Kefas installs First Class Chief of Takum 28 years after demise of late Chief Kufang II

By Yusuf Salihu Sansani, Jalingo

Governor of Taraba State Dr. Agbu Kefas has installed and presented staff of office to His Royal Highness, Barr. Sopiya Ahmadu Gboshi as the First Class Chief of Takum 28 years after the dead of the late Chief Alhaji Ali Ibarhim Kufang the Second.

Presenting the staff of office on Monday at the Exco Chamber, Government House Jalingo alongside two other third-class chiefs, the Governor observed that for nearly three decades, the vacant throne of Takum has been a symbol of division and uncertainty, expressing hope that the new development will usher in the dawn of a new era in Takum.

He noted that in recognition of the need for inclusivity and fairness in providing good governance, his administration has taken a bold step in addressing the long-time issues of the throne.

Governor Kefas disclosed that he embarked on wide consultation and careful deliberations before establishing three third-Class Chiefs in Takum; each representing the ruling Houses of the area; Kpanzo, Kuteb, and Chamba as well as a rotational First Class Chief of Takum.

The Governor urged the people to embrace the principles of reconciliation, forgiveness, and inclusivity.

He celebrated the positive responses of two of the ruling Houses and acknowledged the legal recourse pursued by one of the ruling houses.

Dr Kefas said his administration remains steadfast in its commitment to increase dialogue and further consultations, recognizing the importance of the rule of law in resolving disputes and ensuring a peaceful and sustainable transition of leadership.

Dr Agbu Kefas announced the launch of an endowment fund for the rebuilding of Takum and other areas affected by crisis.

Responding, on behalf of Chiefs the newly installed First Class Chief of Takum, HRH Barr. Sopiya Ahmadu Gboshi thanked the Governor for the bold step in resolving the Chieftaincy dispute in Takum and pledged to justify the confidence reposed in him.

The Third Class Chiefs; Tsohon Takum, HRH Ephraim Bala and the Kur Garbabi Chiefdom HRH Suleiman Umar Salihu were also presented with the staff of the office.

The State Chief Judge, Justice Filibus Joel Agya administered the oath of office and that of allegiance to the Royal Fathers.