Muslim Groups Hail Gov Kefas Over ₦300m Donation for Mosques Reconstruction in Donga

Muslim groups in Donga Local Government Area of Taraba State have commended Governor Agbu Kefas for approving the release of ₦300 million to support the rebuilding of mosques in the area, describing the gesture as a major step toward peace and religious harmony.

The cheques were presented on February 24, 2026, at a ceremony in Donga, with the Permanent Secretary of the Taraba State Bureau for Local Government, Traditional and Chieftaincy Affairs, Engr. Godfrey Dame Andrew, representing the governor. The funds were disbursed to three Muslim groups as part of efforts to resolve lingering disputes and promote peaceful coexistence in the community.

According to the breakdown, ₦100 million was allocated to the Muslim Council, Donga, for the construction of a new central mosque, while Izala Jos received ₦100 million. Another ₦100 million was jointly allocated to Izala Kaduna and the Darika group to enable them commence the construction of separate mosques.

Speaking at the event, Engr. Dame conveyed Governor Kefas' message, stressing that peace remains critical to development. He said the state government is focused on attracting investors, particularly in agriculture, and that sustainable development can only thrive in an atmosphere of unity and religious tolerance. He added that peaceful coexistence would also enhance the benefits of government policies such as free education and expanded investment opportunities across the state.

The intervention follows a prolonged disagreement among Muslim groups in Donga over the ownership and control of the Donga Central Mosque, a situation that had heightened tensions and raised security concerns in the area. The dispute involved the Muslim Council, Donga, Izala Jos, Izala Kaduna and the Darika group.

At the height of the crisis, Governor Kefas had visited the community and assured stakeholders that his administration would take decisive steps to restore peace. As part of the resolution strategy, he pledged to support the construction of separate mosques for the affected groups to prevent future conflicts and foster harmony.

Receiving the cheque on behalf of the Muslim Council, Donga, the Executive Chairman of Donga Local Government Area, Hon. Yahaya Ali Iki, expressed gratitude to the governor for fulfilling his promise to the Muslim community. He described the gesture as timely and reassuring, noting that it would go a long way in strengthening unity and mutual understanding among Muslim faithful in the area.

Other community leaders and representatives of the beneficiary groups also praised the governor's intervention, describing it as an act of responsible leadership. They said the initiative would significantly ease tensions, enhance peace and prevent a recurrence of religious disputes in Donga.

They pledged their commitment to peaceful coexistence and assured the state government of their continued support for initiatives aimed at promoting unity and development across Taraba State.