Attorney-General Defends Land Acquisition in Tiv Communities, Insists Legal Process Followed

The Taraba State government has denied allegations of forcefully seizing ancestral lands belonging to Tiv communities, insisting that all procedures were properly followed before development commenced.

The clarification came from the State Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr. Yakubu Maikasuwa, who said that notices were issued to the affected persons in line with legal requirements.

Speaking on the matter, Maikasuwa explained that under the Land Use Act, "nobody owns any land in the state, except Governor Agbu Kefas." He added that before land titles can be acquired, individuals must complete specific statutory processes; anything short of that remains the property of the state government.

"The state government followed proper procedures in acquiring the disputed lands. Notices were issued, but some individuals avoided service. We respect the rule of law and will not take matters into our own hands while the case is before the court," Maikasuwa said.

He emphasized that the government's actions were lawful:
"There is ongoing development there, and proper procedures were taken. We followed the law in acquiring those places. Any action outside the law is not within our authorization."

The clarification comes amid a N100 billion lawsuit filed by the indigenous Tiv communities of Ikyaior and Jandeikyula in Wukari Local Government Area. The suit names the state government, Governor Agbu Kefas, the Attorney-General, the Taraba State Geographic Information Service (TSGIS), and the Nigerian Army as respondents.

Represented by constitutional lawyer Prof. Sebastine Hon (SAN), the communities allege that soldiers and state authorities unlawfully took over an estimated eight-by-six-kilometre expanse of land without issuing notices, conducting assessments, or paying compensation as required by law. The disputed area includes ancestral homes, farmlands, and other properties passed down through generations.

The plaintiffs claim that the respondents violated their constitutionally protected rights under Sections 43 and 44 of the 1999 Constitution, which guarantee the right to own immovable property and prohibit compulsory acquisition without due process.

The communities are seeking a declaration that the government and army's actions breached their fundamental rights, a perpetual injunction against further occupation or development, and N50 billion each in general and exemplary damages.

When the case came up for hearing at the Federal High Court in Jalingo, the trial judge directed all respondents to appear and show cause why the reliefs sought should not be granted. The matter has been adjourned to January 19, 2026, following the court's recess.