Conflict Erupts Between Governor Kefas, Faransa, Over Destruction of Mining Equipments
By Bashir, ADAMU Jalingo
Tension escalating between Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas and General Jeremiah Faransa (Rtd), who heads both the Task Force Committee on Illegal mining and deforestation and the Taraba State Board of Internal Revenue. The discord stems from the recent destruction of mining equipments valued at over N10 billion in Akwana Village, Wukari local government area of the state
General Faransa, in his role as Task Force Chairman, reportedly ordered the burning of N10.5 billion worth of equipments at the Akwana mining site. This site, located on the border between Taraba and Benue states, is known for its rich deposits of lithium, gold, and sodium. The destroyed equipment included excavators, soundproof generators, detection machines, and motorcycles, all purchased by the Governor through the Bureau for Solid Mineral Resources.
Permanent Secretary of the Bureau, Matsai David, confirmed that the equipment was delivered to Akwana as directed by the Governor. David stated, “I am not answerable to the Taskforce. I will provide an explanation upon the Governor’s return.” This has fueled public speculation about the legitimacy of the mining activities and whether Governor Kefas was involved in any illegal operations.
The Taraba Concern Citizens (TCC) have demanded explanations from both Governor Kefas and General Faransa regarding the destruction of state-funded equipments. TCC Coordinator Comrade Emos Tijani criticized the Task Force's actions and questioned whether Faransa's decision was motivated by internal disagreements or personal interests.
Further complicating matters, there are suspicions that Faransa might be undermining the government’s mining efforts to promote his own private mining ventures, possibly involving influential former military figures. Sources suggest that Faransa’s Task Force has previously seized valuable minerals from illegal miners, which were allegedly sold with the proceeds misappropriated.
Governor Kefas’s dissatisfaction with Faransa's alleged misuse of power and reluctance to relinquish his Task Force role led to Faransa’s reassignment to the Board of Internal Revenue in April. Faransa’s recent attempts to control state revenue collection and recruit loyal staff have reportedly exacerbated tensions with the Governor.
Attempts to contact General Faransa for comment were unsuccessful. Meanwhile, Governor Kefas’s Senior Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Hon. Emmanul Bello, referred inquiries to Matsai David for further clarification on the situation.
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