The Mistakes of Southern Taraba's Ethno-Political Elites By Rikwense Muri

 

Southern Taraba as we all know has always been in the news mostly for the wrong reasons. The region which is blessed with great names in Nigeria in public service, business, military and political landscape, has been plagued with issues surrounding peace, security, and economic development for years. The story of Nigeria as a nation cannot be complete without mentioning great names from Southern Taraba. A major factor contributing to these issues is the mistakes made by the region's ethno-political elites. 

Firstly, these elites have failed to represent the diverse interests of the region's ethnic groups. Instead, they have focused on promoting the interests of their own ethnic groups at the expense of others. This sad reality has led to the extent that even in the religious circles, missionary Churches fall apart and get divided along ethnic narratives. If the gospel of Jesus couldn't unite us, I wonder what will.  These  divisive ethnic narratives has led to a deepening of ethno-political tensions, which has resulted in recurring conflicts, violence, bloodshed and displacement of people. It's a pity and a great disappointment.

Secondly, the elites have a history of using inflammatory language and hate speech, which has contributed to the breakdown of social cohesion and further fuelled violence. This has made it difficult for people of different ethnicities to coexist peacefully in the region.

Thirdly, the elites have failed to deliver on their promise of economic development for the region. Instead, they have engaged in corrupt practices, mismanagement of resources, and a lack of investment in infrastructure. This has left the region underdeveloped, with high unemployment rates and a lack of economic opportunities for its people.

Fourthly, the elites have also failed to prioritize education and healthcare in the region. This has resulted in a lack of access to quality education and healthcare facilities for the people, particularly those living in rural areas.

Fifthly, the elites have not taken proactive measures to address environmental degradation and climate change in the region. This has led to devastating effects on agriculture and natural resources, which are vital for the livelihoods of many people in Southern Taraba.

Lastly, the ethno-political elites have also been known to use violence and intimidation during elections, undermining democratic processes and further deepening divisions among ethnic groups.

In conclusion, the mistakes of Southern Taraba's ethno-political elites have had devastating effects on the region's peace, security, and economic development. It is high time for a new leadership that is committed to promoting unity, good governance, and equitable economic development in the region.

Addressing these issues will require a concerted effort from all stakeholders, including government officials, civil society organizations, religious leaders, and community members. It is crucial that new leaders of the region under the leadership of His Excellency, Dr  Agbu Kefas  prioritize the interests of all ethnic groups in Southern Taraba and work towards promoting peace, security, economic development, education, healthcare, environmental sustainability, and democratic governance.

God has blessed us in Southern Taraba, STYCOP Peace Project believes that it's time to be a blessing to ourselves and the community. Let there be peace, unity and reconciliation amongst to set the turn for economic development of the region. 

Amb Rikwense Muri, mspsp, mnipr

President, STYCOP Peace Project

28th November, 2023