Published – March 14, 2025
By Our Correspondent
The Tiv Culture and Social Association (TCSA) in Taraba State, led by President General Chief James Baka, has distanced itself from a splinter group that installed Chief Akenawe Saameakpe as Ter Ibi, following the emergence of Chief Japheth Iorapuu Mkar as the legitimate Ter Ibi.
In a statement issued on Friday in Jalingo, Chief Baka affirmed that the selection of Chief Mkar as Ter Ibi was the result of a transparent, customary process, which was widely recognized by the Tiv community.
He regretted that, despite a fair and democratic election, Chief Saameakpe and his supporters had initiated a separate, unauthorized process to declare him Ter Ibi.
Chief Baka explained that the two candidates, both from the Ichongo genealogy, contested the position fiercely, with Chief Mkar securing five votes in an election conducted by eight nominated kingmakers, while Chief Saameakpe received three votes.
Following the election, Saameakpe rejected the outcome, and the matter was brought before the Tiv central leadership council, which affirmed Chief Mkar as the rightful Ter Ibi.
Baka called on Saameakpe to accept defeat and cease parading himself as Ter Ibi, urging him to support Chief Mkar’s leadership. He also advised Chief Mkar to lead with magnanimity and include all parties in his leadership.
The TCSA President General concluded by warning those encouraging conflict to desist, emphasizing the importance of maintaining peace and harmony within the Tiv community in Ibi.
He reiterated that the Tiv Culture and Social Association in Taraba would not align with any splinter group challenging the legitimate leadership of Chief Mkar.
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