Jalingo, Taraba State – Governor Agbu Kefas has called for collective spiritual support from citizens amid growing concerns over the prolonged absence of his deputy, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, who has been battling illness for several months.
In a statewide address on Monday, August 11, Governor Kefas emphasized that the situation transcends politics and is fundamentally about humanity and compassion.
“This is not a political matter—it is a human one,” Kefas stated.
“Let us lift him in prayers and stand together as a community guided by faith, morality, and conscience.”
Governor Speaks on Deputy’s Health for the First Time
Acknowledging public concerns about the leadership vacuum created by Alkali’s absence, Kefas broke his silence, saying he felt it was time to speak not just as governor, but as a fellow citizen deeply concerned about a colleague’s wellbeing.
He revealed that Deputy Governor Alkali took ill while performing official duties, and emphasized the importance of collective empathy during this challenging time.
Drawing on both Christian and Islamic teachings, he quoted:
“In the Bible, Galatians 6:2 teaches us to ‘bear one another’s burdens.’ In the Qur’an, Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:32) reminds us that ‘whoever saves one life, it is as though he has saved all mankind.’”
Kefas Emphasizes Compassion Over Politics
While acknowledging the constitutional mechanisms available in cases of incapacitation, Governor Kefas clarified that his current focus is not on political succession but on moral responsibility.
“If and when it becomes necessary to act in line with the constitution regarding his position, I will do so transparently and responsibly,” he affirmed.
“For now, our duty is clear: to support, to care, and to let compassion lead us.”
Legal Expert Warns of Potential Governance Gap
In response to the governor’s address, Jalingo-based human rights lawyer, Barrister Bilyaminu Maihanci, commended the governor’s compassion but stressed the need for adherence to constitutional provisions.
“This is not about removing a deputy out of malice. It’s about ensuring that the machinery of governance continues to function,” he said.
“Sections 189 and 191 of the Constitution are clear on the procedure in cases of prolonged incapacitation.”
Maihanci urged the governor, State Executive Council, and House of Assembly to act within legal frameworks to avoid setting a precedent that could undermine constitutional governance.
Related: Guest Collapses, Dies at Niger Government House
In a separate incident, tragedy struck in Niger State where a male visitor, identified as Gregory, reportedly collapsed and died within the government house premises in Minna.
According to the state police spokesperson, Wasiu Abiodun, the deceased had visited Sammy Adigun, Chairman of the Niger Food Security Systems and Logistics Company Limited, when the incident occurred.
Conclusion
Governor Kefas’s appeal has struck a chord across Taraba State, highlighting the delicate balance between human empathy and constitutional responsibility. As the state watches and prays, eyes remain on both spiritual hopes and legal paths forward.
