Toba Owojaiye reporting
Jalingo, Nigeria
A quiet storm is brewing in Taraba State as lawmakers at the State House of Assembly intensify behind-the-scenes discussions to initiate the replacement of Deputy Governor Alhaji Aminu Alkali, who has been absent from office for over nine months due to a protracted illness.
Multiple sources within the Assembly and government circles confirm to Truth Live News that the Deputy Speaker, Alhaji Hamman Adama, is being considered as a potential successor should the process of removal be finalized. Though no formal motion has yet been moved on the floor, the constitutional gears may soon begin to turn.
At the heart of the lawmakers’ consideration lies Section 189 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, which provides a legal pathway for the removal of a sitting Deputy Governor on grounds of permanent incapacity.
Under this provision, two-thirds of the State Executive Council can initiate the process by passing a resolution declaring the deputy governor unable to discharge the functions of his office. This triggers the appointment of a medical panel, comprising Alkali’s personal physician and four other reputable medical experts, to examine the veracity of the health claim.
“If the panel confirms the deputy governor is permanently incapacitated and the findings are published in the official gazette, the Constitution is clear: he ceases to hold office,” one senior government official explained. “This is not a political witch-hunt. It’s about ensuring the continuity of governance.”
Despite the swirling internal conversations, the state government has officially dismissed the reports. In a press statement, Emmanuel Bello, Special Adviser on Media and Digital Communication to Governor Agbu Kefas, urged the public to disregard the speculation.
“No one has nominated anyone to be Deputy Governor to Dr. Agbu Kefas,” Bello stated firmly. “Disregard any fake news.”
However, sources close to Alkali’s office acknowledge awareness of the deliberations, even though no formal communication has been made from the Deputy Governor’s camp regarding his health or a resignation.
Observers believe lawmakers are reluctant to invoke Section 188, which deals with impeachment for gross misconduct, given that no wrongdoing has been alleged. Instead, Section 189 offers a medically and constitutionally grounded route that preserves dignity while addressing governance gaps.
The development has sparked mixed reactions among citizens. Some sympathize deeply with Alkali and urge caution and transparency. Others argue that in the face of mounting security, economic, and administrative challenges, the state cannot afford to continue without a fully functional deputy.
As the state awaits clarity, one thing is certain, Taraba is approaching a critical constitutional moment, one that will test the balance between compassion and duty, sentiment and statecraft.