Taraba State is once again engulfed in political controversy following the emergence of a letter purportedly announcing the reappointment of a Deputy Chief of Staff to the Office of the Deputy Governor, a development that has triggered constitutional debate and intensified concerns over a looming power tussle within the state’s executive branch.
The contentious appointment, reportedly approved by Governor Agbu Kefas and conveyed through a letter signed by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister. Gebon T. Kataps was justified as a move “to ensure the effectiveness of governance and articulation of government policies and programmes emanating from the Deputy Governor’s Office.”
However, the development has met with sharp criticism, particularly from the Mumuye Cultural Development Association (MCDA), which has called for immediate clarification on the constitutional and administrative necessity of the role.
In a strongly worded statement signed by the Chairman of the MCDA Caretaker Committee, Associate Professor Alex M. Malaazee, and the Secretary, Dr. Ishaku Bitrus Manang, the group questioned the rationale behind the creation of the post, especially in light of Deputy Governor Alhaji Aminu Alkali’s prolonged absence from office since November 2024, during which no such appointment was made.
“Given the continued absence of the Deputy Governor, what informed the sudden reappointment to this office? Is such a position even recognised under the 1999 Constitution (as amended)? In the case of incapacitation, should the Permanent Secretary not assume administrative responsibilities rather than creating a de facto new political office?” the statement read.
The association further expressed fears that the appointment may pave the way for what it described as an “Assistant Deputy Governor” role, possibly serving as a precursor to circumventing constitutional procedures for the replacement of the Deputy Governor — a move that has been speculated in political circles despite official denials.
Reaffirming its earlier stance, the MCDA stressed that any attempt to replace Deputy Governor Alkali must adhere strictly to constitutional provisions and traditional political arrangements within the state.
Highlighting the political sensitivities around the matter, the association recalled that the joint ticket of Governor Kefas and Deputy Governor Alkali was a carefully negotiated agreement with the Mumuye people that was instrumental in securing the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) victory in the 2023 elections.
“The Mumuye people expect this political accord to be honoured by the Agbu-led administration. The deputy governorship position is not a ceremonial token — it is a symbol of trust, representation, and commitment,” the MCDA stated.
While earlier reports that plans were underway to replace Deputy Governor Alkali due to his prolonged ill health, the state government has since denied such claims through the House of Assembly.
As of press time, there has been no official statement from the state government addressing the concerns raised by the MCDA or clarifying the legality and intent behind the controversial appointment.
