The Kuteb Yatso of Nigeria (KYN) has issued a pressing appeal to the Taraba State government and security forces to promptly reclaim communities currently held by bandits.
Following recent barbaric killings in the Yangtu Development Area, the KYN sounded the alarm on the escalating bandit takeover of specific regions within the state.
Emmanuel Ukwen, the National President, voiced the group’s distress, stating, “It is no longer a hidden truth that some of our local communities have fallen into the hands of mercenaries who have seized our residences, places of worship, and educational facilities.”
They implored the state government, police force, DSS, and other security entities to bolster their efforts and expedite the restoration of peace in the affected areas.
The KYN emphasized that the unrest in the region has fostered an environment conducive to criminal activities, leading to a surge in banditry, kidnappings, robberies, sexual assaults, and other heinous acts.
Furthermore, they attributed the unoccupied Ukwe Takum stool as a contributing factor, asserting that this vacuum has enabled various criminal groups to thrive within the state.
Expressing apprehension about a potential deviation from the existing customs and traditions of the Ukwe Takum stool, the KYN urged Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas to meticulously examine its historical significance.
They underscored that the Ukwe Takum stool cannot be rotated, shared, or relinquished to any individual or tribe other than as stipulated by Kuteb customs and traditions.
The group called upon the governor to prioritize the appointment of Ukwe Takum by Kuteb Native and Customs before elevating any newly established chiefdoms in the region.
Acknowledging the myriad of pressures confronting the governor, the KYN urged him to stand resolute and unwavering, cautioning that succumbing to distractions could further exacerbate the already volatile situation.
In light of their concerns about local communities falling under the control of mercenaries, the KYN underscored the imperative for immediate and resolute measures to address the escalating crisis and safeguard the affected communities.
