The directive was issued during a peace meeting held over the weekend at the Palace of the Gara Donga.
Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has directed the temporary closure of the Jumma’at Mosque in Donga Local Government Area after a violent clash that claimed two lives and left several others injured.
The directive was issued during a peace meeting held over the weekend at the Palace of the Gara Donga.
The meeting was attended by traditional rulers, Islamic scholars, community leaders, youth groups, and representatives from different Muslim sects.
Governor Kefas, who was on official duties when the incident occurred, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering unity, fairness, and peaceful coexistence among all religious groups in the state.
He explained that the Traditional Council’s Mosque would remain closed temporarily until the government constructs three new mosques—one each for the Izala-Jos, Izala-Kaduna, and Darika sects.
“This is to ensure fairness, peace, and freedom of worship for all groups. And let me assure you that our Christian brothers under CAN will not be forgotten in the spirit of balance and mutual respect,” Kefas stated.
The governor expressed concerns over the divisions that had emerged within the Muslim community in Donga and appealed to all sides to forgive one another and embrace peace.
“No faith teaches hatred. Religion is meant to draw us close quartersr to God and to one another, not to divide us. As your governor, I am committed to justice, and justice is what gives peace its foundation,” he said.
He stressed that his administration would not tolerate any act capable of disrupting the peace and development of the state, noting that lasting peace remains the cornerstone of progress and unity.
Speaking on behalf of the Muslim Council, Malam Musa commended the governor for what he described as a wise and fair decision.