Deputy Gov. Aminu Alkali Back In Jalingo As Health Improves

 

The Deputy Governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Aminu Abdullahi Alkali, has returned to Jalingo after months of medical treatment abroad, setting the stage for a gradual resumption of public engagements.

 

Alkali, who had been away from office since late December 2024, arrived at the Yola International Airport on Wednesday aboard an Aero Contractor Airline flight. He was immediately conveyed into his waiting convoy under heavy security presence.

 

Our reporter who sighted the Deputy Governor at the airport confirmed that he was conscious of his environment and responded warmly to gestures from family members, aides, and security personnel. However, he was seen with crutches to aid his movement.

 

The convoy later departed for Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, where close associates said he is expected to make a few public appearances in the coming days.

 

 

Yaweh Abdulrasheed Dala, Senior Special Assistant on New Media to the Deputy Governor, in a statement expressed delight at his return.

"On behalf of the good people of Taraba State, I heartily welcome His Excellency Alh. Aminu Abdullahi Alkali, the Deputy Governor, to Jalingo, our beloved State Capital. We are delighted to have you back, Sir, and we pray for continued strength and wisdom as you serve our dear State," Dala said.

 

Taraba Truth and Facts had earlier reported that despite speculations surrounding the health of the Deputy Governor, authoritative sources confirmed there are no plans by Governor Agbu Kefas to replace him before the end of their current tenure in 2027.

 

A senior government source told this newspaper that while political interests have begun maneuvering ahead of the 2027 elections, Governor Kefas remains committed to working with his deputy until the end of their joint mandate.

"The Deputy Governor will complete this tenure, but he is unlikely to run with Governor Kefas in 2027," the source disclosed. "Yes, there has been political speculation around his health, but he is recuperating well and remains in constant communication with his principal. If he eventually resigns on health grounds, it would be entirely his personal decision—no one is pressuring him to do so."

 

Another insider emphasized that although some politicians are already strategizing behind the scenes, Governor Kefas has shown no intention of dropping his deputy over health concerns. "The governor is praying for his deputy's full recovery and has ensured he receives the best possible medical care," the source added.

 

Alkali was first hospitalised at the National Hospital, Abuja in December 2024 before being flown to Egypt, where he spent several months on admission. The nature of his illness had initially been kept secret until the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Bordiya Buma, disclosed during a visit to Egypt that the Deputy Governor had suffered a stroke.

According to him, "He had a stroke, which affected a part of his body, causing weakness on one side and impairing his ability to talk. But glory be to God, the treatment is ongoing, and we are happy with his progress."