Taraba governor releases N300m to address mosque ownership crisis

The Taraba State governor, Agbu Kefas, has released N300 million to resolve the lingering crisis over the ownership of the Central Mosque in Donga, the headquarters of Donga Local Government Area in southern Taraba State. Weekend Trust reports that the crisis over the ownership of a mosque in the area had led to loss of […]

The Taraba State governor, Agbu Kefas, has released N300 million to resolve the lingering crisis over the ownership of the Central Mosque in Donga, the headquarters of Donga Local Government Area in southern Taraba State.

Weekend Trust reports that the crisis over the ownership of a mosque in the area had led to loss of lives and closure of the disputed mosque.

The intervention, the governor said, was aimed at preventing further crisis among three Muslim groups in the area and restoring lasting peace.

The funds were released to support the construction of separate mosques for the affected factions following disputes over the control of the Donga Central Mosque, which had earlier triggered tension and security concerns within the community.

The disagreement involved members of Izala Jos, Izala Kaduna, Darika and the Muslim Council in Donga, raising fears of possible breakdown of law and order.

At the height of the crisis, Governor Kefas had visited Donga and met with religious leaders and stakeholders, where he assured them of his administration’s commitment to resolving the dispute and promoting unity.

As part of the peace-building process, the governor pledged to support the construction of separate worship centres for the affected groups to prevent further conflict and foster harmonious coexistence.

Representing the governor, the permanent secretary, Bureau for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, Godfrey Dame, presented cheques totaling N300 million to the three  sects in dispute with each group receiving N100 million to enable them begin construction of their respective mosques.

Community leaders and stakeholders in Donga appreciated Governor Kefas’ gesture by fulfilling his promise.