The Kuteb community of Taraba state is appealing to the federal government of Nigeria, and the forum of traditional rulers to intervene in the prolonged vacancy of the first-class stool of Takum (Ukwe Takum), which has remained unoccupied for over 28 years. This plea comes amidst the Taraba State House of Assembly’s recent public hearing on an executive bill proposed by Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas. The bill seeks to create one rotational first-class and three third-class chiefs in Takum town, Takum local government.
Additionally, it aims to change the title of the paramount ruler of Takum from “Ukwe Takum” in Kuteb language to “Kuru Takum” in Jukun language.
During a joint press conference held in Jalingo by the two ruling houses of Ukwe Takum and the Kuteb Youths, concerns were raised regarding the exclusivity of the Ukwe stool to the Kuteb people. The community noted that the Ukwe stool, historically limited to the Likam and Akente ruling houses, is a traditional dynasty that cannot be rotated with any other tribe.
Representatives from both ruling houses and the youth voiced apprehension over the state government’s proposed dismantling of a stool that has stood for a century, viewing it as a potential catalyst for social unrest.
They urge stakeholders to prevent any attempt by the Taraba state government to rotate or alter the title of the Ukwe stool, stressing the importance of respecting customs and traditions. The community invokes the recent admonition by the Sultan of Sokoto against interference in traditional customs, urging Governor Kefas to reconsider his stance and adhere to the principles of cultural heritage preservation.
IMAGE: Adamaztv
