In a significant development, the Taraba State House of Assembly has put an end to the prolonged dispute surrounding the traditional stool in Takum local government council.
During a session in Jalingo, the Assembly unanimously passed a bill into law, establishing one rotational first-class chief and three third-class chiefs in the council.
The first class stool, as agreed by the members, is now to be rotated among the Chamba, Jukun and Kuteb tribes in Takum.
The primary objective of this legislation, as articulated by the House Committee Chairman on Local Government, Traditional and Chieftaincy Affairs, led by former speaker Peter Diah, is to address the enduring conflict in Takum, which has resulted in substantial loss of lives and property.
By introducing a rotational system for the traditional stool, lawmakers believe this measure will mitigate violence and restore peace to the area.
The legislative journey, as observed by The Guardian, commenced with an executive communication proposing the establishment of rotational chiefs.
The bill which underwent thorough scrutiny by the committee, culminating in a public hearing that saw participation from various stakeholders, including the State Council of Chiefs, Ministry of Justice, Bureau for Local Governments and Chieftaincy Affairs, and numerous cultural and social associations representing diverse tribes in Takum.
During the hearing, divisions among stakeholders surfaced, 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 pivotal step towards resolving the crisis in Takum, emphasizing 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, lauding their efforts and expressing confidence that the bill would effectively tackle the longstanding crisis in the region.
Deputy Speaker Hamman Adama, presiding over the session, commended the governor for achieving a milestone that had eluded his predecessors and praised the committee for their diligent handling of the matter.
