In a pressing plea addressed to Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, Nyakwala community seeks swift intervention in longstanding conflicts revolving around chieftaincy and land ownership, which threaten the peace and stability of their region.
At the heart of the matter is the contentious appointment of Manu Bala Gani as the acting District head of Matar-Fada, later elevated to the status of third Class Chief. Nyakwala residents argue that this appointment, made after an 18-year vacancy of the stool, was legally contested and deemed erroneous in court.
“Court proceedings upheld Nyakwala’s claim to the chieftaincy stool, emphasizing its rightful place within Nyakwala and the Nyakwala ruling family.”
Additionally, the community raises concerns about a falsified administrative map, purportedly endorsed by chiefs of Bantaje and Matar-Fada.
Making their positions known via a press statement, “this map” according to them, falsely delineates Nyakwala as part of Bantaje Chiefdom, exacerbating tensions and security risks.
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Adding that, the “Traditional fish ponds have been seized, and intruders claim Nyakwala’s farmland as part of Bantaje Chiefdom.
In light of these grievances, the Nyakwala community appeals to Governor Kefas for the establishment
of a high-powered judicial committee to review the appointment of the Chief of Matar-Fada, Manu Bala Gani.
They also pleaded for the governor to direct the Chief of Bantaje to refrain from encroaching on Nyakwala’s territory and investigating the origins of the fake map.
Furthermore, Nyakwala urges the governor to consider appointing a new district head of Matar-Fada from Nyakwala pending the review of the third-class Chief status, which rightfully belongs to their community.
The joint statement, signed by Engr. Irimiya Danji Barau and Prince Collins Umar on behalf of the Nyakwala community, stresses the urgent need for the governor’s intervention to restore peace and justice in the area.
