There is a cloud of uncertainty in Taraba State over the whereabouts of Deputy Governor Aminu Alkali.
Alkali, who assumed office on May 29, 2023, alongside Governor Agbu Kefas under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), reportedly left the state in November 2024 due to health challenges.
However, since his departure, there has been no official communication regarding his condition or location.
Reports suggest that Alkali was initially admitted to the National Hospital in Abuja for medical treatment. It is also claimed that he was later flown to Egypt for more intensive care as his health deteriorated. Despite these speculations, the state government has remained silent, offering no updates to the public.
Pressure has been mounted on the state government, particularly by politicians, demanding that Governor Agbu Kefas provide clear information about his deputy’s health and status.
This situation has drawn comparisons to the 2012 crisis involving former Governor Danbaba Suntai. Suntai, who was involved in a plane crash and incapacitated, refused to transfer power to his deputy, Alhaji Garba Umar, until his passing.
Recently, a Jalingo-based human rights lawyer, Barrister Bilyaminu Maihanchi, has written an open letter to the governor and the Taraba State House of Assembly. In his letter, he urged lawmakers to invoke Section 189 of the Nigerian Constitution (as amended) to address the issue and ensure proper governance.
“I urge Taraba State Governor to provide a clear explanation for the Deputy Governor’s absence and to take immediate action to address the situation. The people of Taraba State deserve to know the truth about their leaders and to have confidence in the governance of their state,” he said.
