
Gov. Ishaku and his deputy in a group picture with the newly appointed chiefs.
Taraba state Governor, Arc. Darius Dickson Ishaku has warned traditional rulers in the state against indiscriminate allocation of land without recourse to laid down rules and regulations.
Similarly, he enjoyed them to guard against sales, transfer or tempering with water bodies across the state.
The governor who gave the warning while presenting staff of office to newly appointed second and third class chiefs at the government house ground in Jalingo, said his government will not hesitate to deal decisively with any traditional ruler found wanting in the discharge of his duties or abusing the oath of office.
He said it has come to government attention that some traditional rulers do not only sale land to undeserving people and groups but also go the extra mile to confiscate lands belonging to their subjects with impunity.

The newly appointed chiefs taking Oath of Office during the event.
He admonished that such practices must not only stop but will attract government sanctions where necessary, adding that as representatives of government at the grassroots, they must act within the ambit of the law and maintain peace at all times in their respective domains.
The governor observed that such illegal practices were responsible for some of the incessant communal clashes the state is experiencing.
The Permanent Secretary Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Alh. Bello Yero speaking during the ceremony said the event is another one to be remembered because another mile stone have been attained.
Bello said it is historic because this is an act that will never leave the minds of the people and is a clear demonstration of the governor’s respect and regards to traditional constitution, he said since the Governor assumed office he has paid utmost attention to the traditional institution, stressing that it is on records that this administration has appointed over 64 chiefs in the 16 local governmentsranging from 1st, 2nd and 3rd class categories.
The Permanent Secretary disclosed that by this singular act the governor has earned himself an enviable and indelible mark in the minds of the people in the state.
Bello said this administration has regularly paid salaries and today’s event has restored the hopes and aspiration of the people at the grassroot.
He said that the traditional institution holds the Governor in great regards and assures him of continues loyalty.
He called on the people to accord the Governor all necessary cooperation in order to achieve the desired dividend of democracy.
The Permanent Secretary went ahead to present the chiefs to the Governor for onward presentation of their staff of office.
The Chiefs who were presented with the staff of office are, Second Class Chief of Jibu-Bali, Second Class Chief of Bakundi in Bali Local Government Area, a Third Class Chief of Shibong and a Third Class Chief of Bika-Ufeb in Takum Local Government Area.