7 hours ago
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The Wukari Traditional Council has clarified the circumstances surrounding Governor Agbu Kefas’ recent “I’m a real Jukun” remark, describing interpretations circulating on social media as misleading and potentially divisive among the Jukun people.
In a statement issued on Saturday, the Council said its attention had been drawn to a Facebook post allegedly distorting comments made by the governor.
Signed by Jolly Agbu Masa-Ibi, Special Adviser to the Aku-Uka of Wukari on media, the Palace noted that, although the governor has official spokespersons, it deemed it necessary to intervene because the meeting at which the statement was made was convened by the Palace and due to growing reactions within and outside the state.
According to the Council, the volume of calls and concerns from various quarters underscored the need to set the record straight in the interest of unity and communal harmony.
The clarification followed a solidarity visit by the Wukari community to the governor on Thursday, February 5, 2026, at TY Danjuma House in Jalingo. The delegation was led by His Majesty, Ishaku Adda Ali. During the visit, Governor Kefas reaffirmed his commitment to fairness, integrity and inclusive governance in the discharge of his duties.
However, the Council observed that certain individuals had “deliberately distorted” the governor’s remark, interpreting his statement, “I am a real Jukun,” as a claim to exclusivity or superiority over other members of the ethnic group. The Palace described such interpretations as unfounded and allegedly aimed at sowing discord for personal or political reasons.
Providing context, the Council explained that the governor’s comment was directed specifically to his kinsmen and was not intended as a comparison with any other ethnic group.
“The statement was meant to reaffirm his adherence to the moral values traditionally associated with the Jukun people, including honesty, integrity and loyalty,” the Palace said.
The Palace likened the remark to a declaration of personal faith, noting that affirming one’s identity and values does not imply superiority over others but rather a commitment to upholding communal standards.
The Council cautioned against taking statements out of context, warning that selective interpretations could lead to misunderstanding and strained relationships within the community. It urged members of the public not to allow external interests to exploit the situation to create division.
Reaffirming its commitment to unity, the Wukari Traditional Council called on residents to disregard what it described as a smear campaign and to continue supporting the current administration in the collective interest of Taraba State.
Wukari Traditional Council denounces misinterpretation of Gov Kefas’ ‘I’m real Jukun’ remark
