By Terna Chikpa, Jalingo – January 17, 2026
The Ugodo community in Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State has lauded the former Managing Director of Taraba State Investment and Property Limited, Hon. Chief Iliya Ezekiel, for his humanitarian intervention to Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) in the area.
Chief Iliya, a House of Representatives aspirant for the Donga, Takum, and Ussa federal constituency, last week visited the displaced persons and donated food items valued at over ₦10 million to victims of attacks by Fulani herdsmen. The attacks, which reportedly occurred on Monday, claimed the lives of the Councilor representing Akete Ward and 12 other residents of Ugodo.
Speaking during the presentation of the items, community leaders, including Tyoor Mbayam, HRH Zaki Stephen Nderaamo, Tyoor Mbashaa, HRH Zaki Moses Elnan, and Tyoor Mbadyugh, HRH Zaki Tsaaga Tyokirgh, described Chief Iliya’s gesture as unprecedented. They commended his empathy for the vulnerable, praying that God rewards his benevolence. The traditional rulers also pledged to support his political ambition in recognition of his humanitarian actions.
Chief Iliya, represented at the event by Hon. Terzungwe Akaayue, Amoamo Shundan, and Victor Salemga, expressed profound regret over the attacks and called on government authorities to ensure the safe return of the displaced persons. He stressed that the intervention was motivated by compassion, not political gain.
“This gesture is borne out of concern for the vulnerable, not political ambition. It is disheartening whenever I hear of attacks on innocent people. Such acts are inhuman and hinder development. I urge all levels of government to work with security agencies to prevent further occurrences,” he said.
