Africa-Press – Nigeria. The Tiv highest decision-making body in Taraba State, Ijir Tamen, has raised alarm over the increasing cases of early marriage among young Tiv girls in the state.
The group, which made the condemnation over the weekend during their 5th expanded stakeholders’ meeting held in Bali Local Government Council, called on parents to prioritise the education and empowerment of the girl child.
The group’s position, contained in a communiqué, stressed the need for all hands to be on deck in order to discourage such practices among the ethnic group.
“We openly condemn the rising cases of early marriage among our young girls. We urge parents to prioritise girl-child education,” the communiqué stated.
Ijir Tamen also commended Governor Agbu Kefas for what it described as decisive steps in tackling insecurity, particularly the recent herdsmen attacks on Tiv communities in Chanchanji Ward of Takum Local Government Area.
According to the group, the governor’s swift intervention has restored confidence among affected residents. They urged him to sustain efforts aimed at achieving lasting peace across the state.
The communiqué, signed by Chief Dr. David Akever Gbaa Tela (Gumbegha U Tiv Taraba I and Ter Tiv Bali II) and the General Secretary, Zaki Targema Ukange, called on Tiv residents to remain vigilant and promptly share intelligence with security agencies amid rising security threats nationwide.
Ijir Tamen further appealed to Governor Kefas to prioritise support for displaced Tiv persons, especially those from Wukari Local Government Area who have yet to return to their homes.
It recommended forming a joint negotiation committee comprising credible Jukun and Tiv stakeholders to address lingering tensions and facilitate the return of internally displaced persons.
The body also expressed concern over low political participation among Tiv people, especially in rural communities. To address this, it resolved to establish a political education committee to mobilise stronger involvement ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Given the heavy reliance of Tiv residents on farming, Ijir Tamen advised community members to diversify their sources of income and adopt modern agricultural methods to improve productivity.
For More News And Analysis About Nigeria Follow Africa-Press
