Taraba State Is Not Bankrupt

·       Group Says Governance Is Progressing Under Gov Kefas 

Recent claims suggesting that Taraba State is on the brink of financial collapse, as reported in some sections of the media, are not only misleading but also designed to create unnecessary panic among citizens. While it is expected that critics will question government policies and expenditures, it is imperative to base such discussions on verified facts rather than speculation.

Contrary to allegations that the state government is bankrupt, it is crucial to separate facts from conjecture and avoid fueling baseless claims. Taraba State remains financially stable, and governance is progressing effectively under the leadership of Governor Agbu Kefas. The administration has demonstrated transparency in fiscal management, ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently to various developmental projects.

Loan Acquisition and Utilization

The assertion that the state government has taken loans amounting to over N250 billion with no tangible projects to show is both exaggerated and inaccurate. Like any responsible government, borrowing is a strategic financial tool used to fund critical infrastructure and stimulate economic growth. If any loan is acquired under Governor Kefas, it will be properly accounted for and channeled towards projects that have long-term benefits for the people of Taraba State.

The ongoing infrastructural projects, including road construction, school renovations, and hospital upgrades, are part of this carefully planned expenditure. The claim that no single kilometer of road has been constructed is false. Several road projects are currently at various stages of construction, with others set to commence as part of the administration’s phased development agenda in the new year.

Project Execution and Delays

It is essential to recognize that governance is a continuous process, and some inherited projects from previous administrations require additional funding and technical adjustments. The remodeling of the Government House (TY Danjuma House), the construction of the Trade Fair Complex, and the renovation of state institutions are ongoing projects that have not been abandoned. Temporary delays, often due to external factors such as negotiations with federal agencies or contractual adjustments, do not equate to abandonment.

Additionally, the Jalingo water project, which was left incomplete by the previous administration, has overcome the major hurdles that the former government failed to address. The Kefas administration has taken up the completion of this project, moving it from 78% completion to about 98% readiness for use. Today, water has successfully reached the tower located opposite the PDP Secretariat and is ready for distribution to homes. The administration has also secured top-quality equipment and water treatment plants for this project.

The Danbaba Suntai Airport upgrade is another major project that underscores the state’s commitment to economic growth. By enabling larger aircraft to land in Jalingo at any time of the day, this initiative will boost commerce, tourism, and business opportunities for residents. Such a critical development project requires substantial planning and investment, which the government is diligently executing. The assertion that no tangible development has occurred under this administration is simply incorrect.

Free Education and Social Initiatives

One of the most significant achievements of the Kefas administration is the implementation of the free education policy, which aims to provide access to quality education for all children in Taraba State. Dismissing this initiative as “superficial” ignores the substantial resources already committed to ensuring its success. School materials, including uniforms, books, and digital learning tools, have been procured and are being distributed across various local government areas. The achievements recorded in the education sector in the almost two years of this administration should be commended looking at rots in the sector and continuous sabotage of this laudable policy. Most of our public schools are now being secured and the free payment for external examination has brought great relief to people of the state. From primary to tertiary levels, education is now either free or significantly subsidized, reducing the financial burden on parents and increasing school enrollment rates across the state.

Revenue Generation and Financial Sustainability

A strong financial foundation is vital for the sustainable development of any state. The allegation that Taraba State is unable to meet its financial obligations, including salary payments, is unfounded. Recently, Governor Agbu Kefas addressed the long-standing crisis at Taraba State University, Jalingo, bringing joy to lecturers and the university community. Today, lecturers in Taraba State University are among the best-paid in the country. The government has maintained a steady revenue flow with an improved internally generated revenue (IGR) strategy that reduces reliance on federal allocations.

Furthermore, deductions for loan repayments are standard financial practices and do not imply that the state is in distress. The administration’s commitment to transparency ensures that funds are utilized judiciously, with strict oversight on all financial transactions.

Addressing Allegations of Diversion and Mismanagement

Accusations that loans have been misappropriated or funneled into personal accounts lack credible evidence and are politically motivated. Every kobo spent by the state government is accounted for, with financial reports available for scrutiny. The suggestion that N100 billion was returned to a political godfather is baseless and designed to mislead the public.

Similarly, claims that funds allocated for food security, agriculture, and local government support have “disappeared” are not backed by any verifiable documentation. A visit to the Ministry of Agriculture will reveal the progress Governor Kefas has made in food security, including the purchase of tractors, free distribution of fertilizers for dry season farming, and the revival of the Taraba Vegetable Farm, popularly known as the Cucumber Farm. These initiatives demonstrate the government’s commitment to boosting agriculture in the state.

Governor’s Travels: A Strategic Necessity

The claim that Governor Kefas has been absent from the state for over three months, leading to a standstill in government activities, is an exaggeration. Leadership extends beyond physical presence, and strategic engagements outside the state are necessary for fostering economic partnerships and securing investments. Governor Kefas’ travels have yielded many positive results, including discussions on establishing an eco-tourism center on the Mambilla Plateau and attracting investors to Taraba.

Governor Agbu Kefas is fully aware of the responsibilities entrusted to him by the people of Taraba State. His administration remains focused on delivering sustainable development, improving infrastructure, and creating opportunities for economic prosperity. The commitment to laying a strong foundation for future growth is unwavering, and the people of Taraba will continue to see tangible progress.

Rather than propagating unfounded allegations, it is crucial to engage in constructive dialogue that promotes the state’s growth. The government remains open to accountability and welcomes fact-based discussions on governance and fiscal responsibility.

The general consensus among Taraba residents is that this administration has been far more effective than its predecessor. Across multiple sectors, there have been remarkable improvements in the lives of Tarabans since Governor Kefas took office.

Salaries for civil servants, once a major challenge, are now paid regularly, with the backlog of unpaid wages inherited from the previous administration cleared. Taraba is also among the states that have successfully implemented the new minimum wage. Pensioners, too, are now receiving their dues promptly.

On security, the administration has taken significant steps to curb criminal activities. The deployment of advanced security technology, including drones, has enabled law enforcement to detect and apprehend criminals effectively.

 Governor Kefas’ approach to governance is about laying a strong foundation for long-term progress. As he has stated, governance is not about immediate gratification but about setting up structures that will benefit Taraba State for generations to come. The administration’s focus on education, security, infrastructure, and economic revitalization is a testament to its commitment to sustainable development.

Umar A. Umar is the Coordinator of the Governor Agbu Kefas Independent Strategic Communication Group.