TSBPCM DG Applauds Governor Kefas' Reforms to Boost Peace, Security in Taraba

The Director-General of the Taraba State Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management (TSBPCM) has praised Governor Agbu Kefas for introducing a series of executive orders aimed at addressing insecurity, environmental degradation, and social challenges in the state.

Speaking at the National Peace Policy High-Level Stakeholders' Workshop in Abuja, the DG described the governor's actions as decisive and forward-looking, noting that the policies would reinforce peacebuilding efforts, prevent conflicts, and promote sustainable development across Taraba.

He singled out the Executive Order banning political thuggery as a significant milestone in strengthening democratic governance and maintaining public peace. According to him, the prohibition of political thuggery, hate speech, voter intimidation, and the carrying of weapons during political activities sends a strong message against violence and underscores the administration's commitment to credible elections and the rule of law.

The DG also welcomed the Executive Order regulating mining operations and protecting host communities, saying it would help tackle illegal mining and logging, preserve the environment, and protect agricultural lands and water bodies. He noted that the policy would ensure the responsible use of Taraba's natural resources while safeguarding the interests of local communities.

On the issue of drug abuse, he described the governor's Executive Order as a major step towards strengthening the state's response to substance abuse and mental health challenges. He said the policy would improve the capacity of law enforcement agencies to combat drug-related crimes while expanding access to prevention, rehabilitation, and reintegration programmes, especially for vulnerable youths.

The Director-General reaffirmed the bureau's readiness to partner with relevant government agencies, security organisations, traditional institutions, and development partners to ensure the successful implementation of the executive orders. He expressed optimism that the reforms would foster lasting peace, improve public safety, and accelerate the state's social and economic development.

RELIGIOUS LEADERS CRITICAL TO PEACE, SECURITY, NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT — TSBPCM CHAIRMAN

The Chairman of the Taraba State Bureau for Peace and Conflict Management (TSBPCM), Bishop Innocent Rubiruka Solomon, has emphasised the vital role of religious leaders in promoting national development, peace and security across Nigeria.

Bishop Solomon said faith leaders remain indispensable partners in fostering unity, peaceful coexistence and strong moral values within communities. He noted that their influence is essential in preventing conflicts, encouraging dialogue and strengthening social cohesion.

According to him, lasting peace can only be achieved through the active involvement of religious leaders, whom he described as trusted voices capable of promoting tolerance, reconciliation and mutual respect among people of diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds.

He called on religious leaders across Taraba State to sustain their commitment to preaching peace, love, justice and harmony, while discouraging hate speech, violence and other actions capable of undermining the state's stability.

The TSBPCM Chairman further stated that Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas' peace agenda prioritises collaboration with religious institutions as strategic partners in conflict prevention, mediation and peacebuilding across the state.

He reaffirmed the Bureau's commitment to strengthening partnerships with churches, mosques and other faith-based organisations to advance dialogue, reconciliation and community-driven peace initiatives aimed at ensuring lasting peace, security and sustainable development in Taraba State.