PRESS RELEASE....
BY THE CHIEF OF STAFF, GOVERNMENT HOUSE ADMINISTRATION TARABA STATE AFTER AN EMERGENCY MEETING OF HIS EXCELLENCY THE EXECUTIVE GOVERNOR OF TARABA STATE ARC. DARIUS D. ISHAKU WITH CAN AND MUSLIM COUNCIL OFFICIALS, AND HEADS OF SECURITY AGENCIES IN THE EXCO CHAMBERS OF THE GOVERNMENT HOUSE JALINGO ON WEDNESDAY 8TH FEBRUARY, 2017.
In recent times, Taraba State has been witnessing unprecedented influx of herdsmen in a manner that points at motives beyond ordinary search for grazing lands. In particular, security reports have attributed over 80% of cases of destruction of farmlands rape, robbery, cattle rustling, and even communal clashes as recently witnessed in some communities in Ardo Kola, Karim Lamido, Lau and Kurmi Local Government Areas to these herdsmen.
Government has it on good account that these herdsmen are trooping into the state on the invitation of some personalities within the state. This is most disturbing and does not speak well of such personalities, considering the fact that government has been able to put in relentless efforts to achieve the level of peace that we have been enjoying before the resurgence of the ugly occurrences we have witnessed in recent times.
For the avoidance of doubt, the Taraba State Government is conscious of her responsibility for security of lives of all citizens and other residents in Taraba State. That is why all efforts are being geared towards the provision of conducive environment for farmers and herdsmen.
Tarabans would recall that just about a week ago, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Arc. Darius D. Ishaku met with his Benue State counterpart at Kashimbilla and jointly declared their intention to promote cattle ranching through the cultivation of cattle feeds and provision of land for ranches. Government believes that when this is done, farmers and herdsmen clashes will be brought to its barest minimum.
In view of the foregoing, His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Arc. Darius D. Ishaku wishes to appeal to those responsible for the influx of these dangerous herdsmen should desist from their activities which have impacted badly on the citizens of the State. All hands must be on deck to ensure enduring peace and security of our state.
All good spirited citizens and residents of Taraba State are hereby encouraged to be law abiding, and report all suspicious movements to have confidence in the security agencies, appropriate security agents and relevant state government functionaries. We must all avoid the temptation to exaggerate happenings in our communities as this has contributed in no small measure in creating unnecessary suspicion and tension that have in some cases led to widespread destruction of lives and properties.
Taraba State belongs to all of us, so we must do all we can to be united in ensuring that we remain peaceful and focused on her development.
REBO USMAN,
CHIEF OF STAFF
GOVERNMENT HOUSE ADMINISTRATION
