Gunmen, on Friday, ambushed and killed the Gara of Chanchanji, HRH Tanimu Kunbiya, and his son, Yusuf, along the Takum-Chanchanji road in Takum Local Government Area of Taraba State.
PUNCH Online learnt that the sad incident happened when the traditional ruler and his son were returning from a funeral event in Takum.
Governor Agbu Kefas, who confirmed the incident, has since directed law enforcement agencies to bring the perpetrators to justice swiftly.
In a press statement issued by his media aide, Emmanuel Bello, the governor expressed his condolences to the bereaved family, the Chanchanji community, and the entire people of Takum.
“The death of the Gara of Chanchaji, HRH Alhaji Tanimu Kumbiya, and his son is a tragic loss. The manner in which they were brutally attacked is deeply saddening.
“I have ordered security agents to immediately investigate the circumstances and apprehend those responsible for this heinous crime.”
The governor urged the residents of Takum to remain calm, assuring them that the state government would leave no stone unturned in its efforts to bring the criminals to justice.
Also reacting to the sad development, the President General of Tiv Cultural and Social Association, Taraba State, Chief James Baka, in a statement, condemned the killing and called on the government and security agencies to diligently investigate the murder and bring the perpetrators to justice.
While expressing shock over the murder, the President said, “As a people, we are deeply saddened and concerned by this event. We urge everyone to remain calm and allow the security agencies to carry out their responsibilities effectively.
We unequivocally condemn any act of criminality and will never associate with criminal elements. We appeal to His Excellency, Dr. Agbu Kefas, the Governor of Taraba state, to deploy security forces to calm the rising tensions in the area.
The Tiv people of Takum have long coexisted peacefully with the Chamba and Jukun communities in the area. Never before have we witnessed such a grievous incident. We are committed to maintaining this harmonious relationship and stand united against any acts of violence that threaten our collective peace,” the statement reads.
(PUNCH)