The Taraba State Assembly has brought an end to the protracted dispute over the traditional stool in the Takum Local Government Council.
During a session held in Jalingo, the assembly unanimously passed a bill into law, establishing a rotational system for the traditional chieftaincy positions in the council.
Under the new law, there will be one rotating first-class chief and three third-class chiefs in the council. The first-class stool will now rotate among the Chamba, Jukun, and Kuteb tribes in Takum.
The primary aim of this legislation, according to the House Committee Chairman on Local Government, Traditional, and Chieftaincy Affairs, former Speaker Peter Diah, is to address the longstanding conflict in Takum, which has led to significant loss of lives and property.
By introducing a rotational system, lawmakers believe that this measure will help reduce violence and restore peace in the area.
The legislative process began with an executive communication proposing the establishment of rotational chiefs. The bill underwent thorough scrutiny by the committee, including a public hearing that saw participation from various stakeholders, such as the state Council of Chiefs, the Ministry of Justice, the Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, and numerous cultural and social associations representing diverse ethnic groups in Takum.
During the hearing, there was division among stakeholders, with some endorsing the bill while others vehemently opposed it, citing concerns related to cultural heritage and inheritance.
However, in the committee’s report, Diah underscored the decision as a crucial step towards resolving the crises in Takum, emphasising the significance of unity among the populace. He also asserted that the rotational arrangement would foster reconciliation and peace in Takum and the state at large.
Assembly members echoed the committee’s sentiments, praising their efforts and expressing confidence that the bill would effectively address the longstanding crises in the region.
Presiding over the session, Deputy Speaker Hamman Adama commended the governor for achieving a milestone that had eluded his predecessors and praised the committee for their diligent handling of the matter.
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