Ukwe Takum: Gov Kefas adamant about taking Kuteb's heritage – Elders Forum accuses

Musa Peace Affos, Jalingo

The Elders Forum of Taraba residing in Abuja claimed on Tuesday that Governor Agbu Kefas is determined to take away the traditional leadership (Ukwe Takum) from the Kuteb people.

Elder Ande Filli, speaking on behalf of the Forum in a statement to journalists in Jalingo, expressed concerns about a bill submitted by the governor to the Taraba State House of Assembly. They believe the bill aims to strip the Kuteb people of their traditional dynasty.

It was announced that a public hearing for the creation of a first-class chief and three third-class chiefs in Takum town would be held on Wednesday at the assembly complex in Jalingo.

Recent accusations have been made by the Kuteb Yatso of Nigeria and other groups, alleging that Gen. TY Danjuma plans to use Kefas to change the title of the paramount ruler of Takum, "Ukwe Takum," to "Kuru Takum" in the Jukun language. This move would remove the Kuteb's rightful ownership of the stool.

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The statement also claimed that the bill seeks not only to change the title of the first-class chief but also to introduce a rotational system that would allow the Jukun and Chamba tribes to ascend to the first-class throne of Takum, thereby breaking the Kuteb traditional dynasty.

The elders emphasized that the Kuteb people have historically ruled Takum, but now face threats to their heritage. They urge Governor Kefas and the Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly to withdraw the bill and respect the traditional boundaries of Takum.