*Say it will worsen ethnic, religious tension in tbe state
*Wants the decision reversed immediately
From Godwin Agia, in Jalingo
The Southern Taraba Youth Coalition for Peace (STYCOP) has criticized Governor Agbu Kefas’s decision to rename the Taraba State Government House in Jalingo and the Governor’s Lodges in Abuja and Wukari after General T.Y. Danjuma.
A statement by the coalition’s president, Amb Rikwense Muri on Sunday in Jalingo, noted that the decision may exacerbate existing ethnic and religious divisions in the state.
The group believes that government institutions should reflect the collective values and aspirations of the diverse community.
Muri urged Governor Kefas to reconsider the decision and prioritize inclusivity in government actions. The group wants institutions like the Government House to symbolize unity among all citizens and reflect the diverse history and values of Tarabans.
“The Southern Taraba Youth Coalition for Peace (STYCOP) wishes to express our deep concerns regarding the recent decision by His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Executive Governor of Taraba State, to rename the Taraba State Government House in Jalingo and the Governor’s Lodges in Abuja and Wukari to T.Y. Danjuma House.
“While we acknowledge General T.Y. Danjuma’s contributions to Nigeria’s political landscape, we must emphasize that honoring an active political figure with such a significant renaming is not only inappropriate but may also exacerbate the existing ethnic and religious divisions within our state. The perception of General Danjuma as an agent of division raises serious questions about the implications of this decision for all citizens of Taraba.
“Naming government institutions should reflect our collective values and aspirations as a diverse community. Other states in Nigeria have refrained from naming their government houses after individuals, regardless of their historical significance. For instance, Katsina State has not honored Muhammadu Buhari, and Niger State has not named its Government House after General Ibrahim Babangida. These examples illustrate a commitment to unity over personal accolades.
“In a state where various government panels have reported on ethnic and religious conflicts, associating our Government House with a controversial figure like Danjuma could further inflame tensions rather than foster the unity we strive for. His involvement in local chieftaincy disputes and political maneuvering has already raised concerns among the populace.
“As representatives of the youth in Southern Taraba, we urge Governor Kefas to prioritize inclusivity in all government actions. Institutions like the Government House should symbolize unity among all citizens—Christians, Muslims, pagans, and individuals from various ethnic backgrounds.
“We reject the notion that the Government House should bear the name of someone whose actions have been linked to division and conflict. Instead, we call for a naming process that reflects the diverse history and values of all Tarabans, promoting peace and cooperation.
“The Southern Taraba Youth Coalition for Peace stands united in our call for the Governor to reconsider this decision. We believe it is imperative to honor figures who have contributed positively to the unity and progress of Taraba State, fostering an environment where all citizens feel represented and valued,” statement read.
