‘Kefas never abandoned our father’ – Ailing Taraba deputy gov’s son

The family of the ailing Deputy Governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, has commended Governor Agbu Kefas for what it described as unwavering support throughout the deputy governor’s prolonged illness.

Speaking with journalists at the deputy governor’s residence in Jalingo on Wednesday, the deputy governor’s first son, Mallam Ibrahim Aminu Alkali, dismissed reports circulating on social media alleging that Governor Kefas had abandoned his deputy and his family.

According to Ibrahim, the family has witnessed significant improvement in his father’s health since he fell ill nearly two years ago, attributing the progress to God’s intervention and the governor’s commitment.

“I appreciate governor Agbu Kefas for the love and support he has shown our family since my father’s illness began. Without God’s grace and the governor’s intervention, things would have been very difficult for us,” he said.

He stated that despite political pressures and speculation surrounding the deputy governor’s health, Governor Kefas remained steadfast in his support.

“My father was first treated in Nigeria before he was flown to Egypt for further medical attention. After returning to the country, he continued treatment in Jalingo and is currently undergoing routine medical check-ups in Abuja, where we have seen remarkable improvement in his condition,” Ibrahim added.

He further disclosed that the governor not only ensured the payment of medical bills but also made regular personal visits to monitor the deputy governor’s recovery.

Ibrahim appealed to politicians to refrain from exploiting his father’s health for political gain, insisting that the support shown by Governor Kefas to both the deputy governor and his family had been exceptional.

Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Usman Madu, said all statutory entitlements due to the deputy governor have continued to be paid promptly despite his health condition.

Madu noted that Governor Kefas had consistently approved requests relating to the deputy governor’s medical treatment without delay, describing the governor as responsive and supportive throughout the period of Alkali’s illness.

His prolonged absence from active public duties since November 2024 has generated political debate in Taraba State, with some stakeholders previously calling for his replacement, while others maintained that he should be allowed to recover and complete his tenure.