The Abuja chapter of the Taraba Tiv People Association (TATIPA) has dismissed a viral social media post, accusing the Governor of Agbu Kefas and the traditional ruler of Donga, Sanvala Varzoa Shimbura, of allegedly collaborating with Fulani militias to attack Tiv communities in Donga Local Government Area.
In a statement released over the weekend, the association described the allegations as false, malicious, and deliberately misleading, warning that such misinformation could inflame tensions and undermine ongoing peace efforts in the state.
The rebuttal followed a Facebook post on Wednesday, March 12, 2026, by a faceless account using the pseudonym “His Royal Highness Orsankera Afaakaa.”
The post claimed that Gov. Kefas and the Gara of Donga held a secret meeting with Fulani militias to plan attacks against Tiv residents, particularly in Tor Damsa.
It also alleged that the governor contributed N25 million to support the operation.
TATIPA said it initially considered the allegations with concern but opted to verify the information before responding publicly.
“Our findings clearly show that the allegations are false, malicious, and misleading.
“Unfortunately, before this rebuttal could be issued, the rumor had already generated significant engagement on social media, spreading misinformation and creating unnecessary tension among members of the public,” the statement read.
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Signed jointly by Mr. Samuel Orhena, national president, and Peter Achibo, national secretary of TATIPA, the statement explained that the viral claims likely arose from a legitimate peace and security meeting held in Donga on the same day.
The meeting, which brought together representatives of Tiv and Fulani communities alongside security officials, was aimed at promoting dialogue and preventing further clashes.
Attendees included the commanding officer of the 93 Battalion, Takum, the divisional police officer in Donga, representatives of both ethnic communities, and a representative of the Gara of Donga.
During the meeting, the commanding officer issued a stern warning to all parties to desist from attacks, stressing that any violation would invite decisive action from the Nigerian Army.
TATIPA accused the anonymous social media account of deliberately distorting the peace initiative to create a narrative of violence.
“It is highly irresponsible to twist a peace meeting into an allegation of conspiracy and bloodshed,” the association said.
While commending the army for its commitment to maintaining security, the association acknowledged that recent attacks in parts of Taraba State, including Takum and Donga, remain a serious concern.
The group also highlighted ongoing broader peace efforts involving the Taraba State government, the administration of Governor Hyacinth Alia in neighboring Benue State, and traditional institutions from the Tiv and Jukun communities.
“These efforts aim to restore stability and strengthen peaceful coexistence in affected communities,” TATIPA said.
Distancing itself and Tiv residents from the viral post, the association urged the public to disregard the claims.
It also called on the individual behind the account to withdraw the publication immediately and tender an unreserved apology to Gov. Kefas and the Gara of Donga for the reputational damage caused.
