Taraba Communities Protest Against Sen. Dagash’s Alleged Land Grab

By Samaila Emmanuel

Communities in Gassol District, Gassol Local Government Area of Taraba State, have vehemently rejected the alleged seizure of their farm lands by Senator Sanusi Dagash. The protesters, led by Mallam Hudu Kashimu, asserted that they would resist the land grab with their last breath.

According to Kashimu, the disputed land was initially allocated to Dr. Shuaibu Bukar, former Minister of Agriculture and Water Resources, for personal use. However, Bukar’s family sold the land to Senator Dagash, who allegedly obtained a Certificate of Occupancy without the knowledge or consent of the original landowners.

Wurbo, Kwatantaro, Sendirde Natride, and Dinyawo, have appealed to the current governor to intervene and reclaim their lands

The communities claimed that Dagash fraudulently acquired 5,000 hectares of land, but the deal was revoked by former Governor Darius Ishaku. Despite this, Dagash reportedly pleaded for a smaller portion of land, which was granted by Ishaku. However, Dagash allegedly went to court seeking reinstatement of the original 5,000 hectares.

The affected communities, including Wurbo, Kwatantaro, Sendirde Natride, and Dinyawo, have appealed to the current governor to intervene and reclaim their lands. Emir of Gassol, Alhaji Idris Chiroma, has called for calm, stating that the matter is still in court and he will remain impartial.

The protest highlights the ongoing struggles over land ownership and usage in Taraba State, with local communities often at odds with powerful individuals and interests.