Kefas offers N300m to settle Mosque-induced rift among Taraba Muslims

To avoid upheaval among three Muslim sections in Donga, the Headquarters of Donga Local Government Area from the Southern part of Taraba, Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has paid a sum of N300 million to the Muslim Community for the construction of separate Mosques within the area.

The N300 million is a fulfillment of the governor’s pledge and intervention following recent disputes over the ownership and control of the Donga Central Mosque, which led to heightened tension and security challenges within the community.

The disagreement, involving members of Izala Jos, Izala Kaduna, Darika, and the Muslim Council in Donga, had raised concerns among residents and security agencies.

During an earlier visit to Donga at the peak of the crisis, Governor Agbu Kefas assured stakeholders that his administration would take proactive steps to restore peace and foster unity.

As part of the resolution process, he pledged to construct separate mosques for the affected sects to promote harmony and prevent further conflict.

In fulfillment of his commitment, Godfrey Dame, the Permanent Secretary, Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, who represented the governor, presented cheques totaling N300 million to representatives of the sects. Each group received N100 million to enable them commence the construction of new mosques.

Speaking during the presentation, Dame reiterated Agbu Kefas’ administration’s commitment to peaceful coexistence, religious tolerance and equitable development across all communities in Taraba State.

He noted that the governor’s swift response demonstrated responsible leadership and sensitivity to the needs of the people.

Earlier, community leaders in Donga, who spoke during the occasion, expressed appreciation to Governor Kefas for honouring his promise, describing the gesture as timely and commendable.

They affirmed that the initiative would go a long way in dousing tensions, strengthening unity, and preventing future misunderstandings among the Muslim faithful in the Area.