The Governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, has appointed Hon. Hamma Adama, the Deputy Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly and representative for the Bali II constituency, as the new Deputy Governor.
This appointment comes in light of the extended absence of the former Deputy Governor, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, who has been undergoing medical treatment abroad since November 2024 following a stroke.
Alkali’s health concerns have raised public apprehensions regarding transparency and governance. The state government had previously clarified that Alkali’s absence was due to medical reasons and assured the public that he is recovering well and is expected to return to his duties soon.
Zainab Usman, the Taraba State Commissioner for Information, emphasised that Alkali’s health is improving, stating, “He is recovering very well, and we are looking forward to his return to duty.”
The Commissioner for Health, Bordiya Buma, who visited Alkali in Egypt, also confirmed that the Deputy Governor is responding positively to treatment, saying, “He had a stroke, which affected a part of his body, resulting in weakness. His ability to speak was also impacted, but thankfully, the treatment is ongoing, and we are pleased with the progress he is making.”
Adama’s legislative background is expected to bring stability to the state government. However, the government’s silence regarding Alkali’s status continues to fuel speculation about his potential return to office.
The government has asserted that Alkali’s absence does not warrant his impeachment, citing the law’s lack of clarity on the duration a Deputy Governor can be absent from office due to health issues.
