Concerns grow over Taraba Deputy governor’s whereabouts after three-month absence

Keep up with the latest news and be part of our weekly giveaways and airtime sharing; follow our WhatsApp channel for more updates. Click to Follow us

Concern over Deputy Governor Aminu Alkali’s extended absence—he hasn’t been seen in public for more than three months due to health issues—is growing in Taraba State.

Alkali was treated at the National Hospital in Abuja before departing the state in November 2024, according to reports. Unverified reports, however, indicate that his condition deteriorated and that he was sent to Egypt for critical medical treatment.

Despite this, the state government has stayed mute, generating conjecture and fear among citizens and political stakeholders.

The lack of formal communication surrounding Alkali’s health and location has drawn analogies to the case of former Taraba Governor Danbaba Suntai, who suffered a plane disaster in 2012.

Suntai stayed in power despite his incapacity because a conspiracy took over the state’s operations and prevented his deputy, Alhaji Garba Umar, from taking complete command until his death.

Concerned individuals urge Governor Agbu Kefas to provide clarification and an update on the condition of his deputy in the face of mounting confusion. Owing to his extended absence, a number of politicians are allegedly advocating for Alkali’s cause, which exacerbates political scheming in the state.

Human rights attorney Barrister Bilyaminu Maihanchi, who practices in Jalingo, has called on the Taraba State House of Assembly to apply Section 189 of the Nigerian Constitution to resolve the matter. In an open letter, he emphasized the need for transparency and accountability, stating: “I urge the Taraba State Governor to explain the Deputy Governor’s absence and take immediate action. The people of Taraba deserve to know the truth about their leaders and have confidence in the governance of their state.”

In addition, Maihanchi urged the House of Assembly to fulfill its constitutional duties and guarantee the continued effectiveness of the state’s leadership.

“The Taraba State House of Assembly must investigate the circumstances surrounding the Deputy Governor’s absence and take appropriate steps to resolve the situation,” he added.

Speaker John Kizito Bonzina has reportedly been out of the country, thus attempts to reach him for comment have failed. Emmanuel Bello, the Senior Assistant on Media and Digital Communications for Governor Kefas, also declined to comment, saying he would conduct research before answering.

However, at the time this report was filed, Bello had not returned any additional calls, texts, or WhatsApp messages.

In the upcoming months, residents will be waiting for official confirmation of the deputy governor’s status and the consequences for Taraba’s government as worries grow.

Please don’t forget to “Allow the notification” so you will be the first to get our gist when we publish it. 
Drop your comment in the section below, and don’t forget to share the post.