The political landscape in Taraba State is heating up as the Peoples Redemption Party (PRP) and Governor Agbu Kefas engage in a verbal showdown concerning the Ukwe Takum traditional stool. The PRP has launched scathing criticism against Governor Kefas, cautioning that his stance on the traditional leadership issue could lead to chaos and erode governance values in the state.
Wasa Wukari, the PRP’s gubernatorial candidate in the recent general election, condemned the ruling Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for what he perceived as detrimental policies that could drive Taraba State into decline. He particularly objected to the rotational system for traditional stools, warning that it could establish a negative precedent and strain the state’s resources. Wukari also raised concerns about the creation of additional chiefdoms without clearly defined territories, questioning the financial implications of such decisions.
Alleging a socio-economic downturn under PDP administration, Wukari criticized Governor Kefas for exacerbating the challenges inherited from the previous government. He called upon the PDP leadership to intervene in order to prevent further deterioration of Taraba State’s socio-economic conditions. Wukari pointed out Governor Kefas’ alleged failure to foster unity among the populace, accusing him of deepening ethnic and religious divides.
Furthermore, Wukari lamented the state of the education sector under Governor Kefas’ leadership, citing overcrowded schools, compromised standards, overwhelmed facilities, and demoralized staff. He rebuked the government’s implementation of free education, highlighting issues with infrastructure, lack of uniforms and furniture for students, and neglect of health and dignity concerns. Wukari criticized the delay in providing necessary resources for primary and secondary school pupils, painting a dire picture of the education system in Taraba.
In response, Emmanuel Bello, the Senior Special Adviser to Governor Kefas on Media and Digital Communication, dismissed the PRP’s criticisms as baseless, describing them as absurd and bordering on lunacy. Bello defended Governor Kefas, lauding the government’s efforts to rectify years of mismanagement and corruption. He highlighted the governor’s initiatives such as free education and a 50% reduction in tuition fees at the tertiary level, which have garnered praise nationwide. Bello emphasized Governor Kefas’ commitment to prompt salary payments, inclusive governance, and the eradication of divisive politics, portraying him as a unifying figure loved by both the youth and the elderly in Taraba State.
