Taraba @34: Citizen Seeks Renaming of Jalingo Secretariat After Audu Danburam

As Taraba State prepares to mark its 34th anniversary on August 27, 2025, a citizen has called on the state government to immortalize the contributions of Retired Captain Abdullahi Jalingo, one of the figures credited with securing the state's creation and ensuring Jalingo became its capital.

In an open letter addressed to the Chairman of Jalingo Local Government Council, Hon. Dr. Aminu Jauro Hassan, and Governor Agbu Kefas, Kamal Hammajo Adam urged the authorities to take concrete steps to honour heroes of Taraba's statehood struggle.

Adam's foremost appeal was that the Jalingo Local Government Council Secretariat be renamed in honour of Retired Captain Abdullahi Jalingo (popularly known as Alh. Audu Danburam).

"His loyalty, commitment, and selflessness were instrumental in securing Taraba State and ensuring that Jalingo emerged as the state capital during the IBB administration," Adam wrote.

He further called on the government to organize a formal event on August 27 to celebrate all those—living and deceased—who made sacrifices in the long struggle for the creation of Taraba State.

Adam lamented that despite the pivotal roles played by many individuals, there has never been a formal, state-led recognition for their contributions since Taraba was created 34 years ago.

"Honouring them will not only give surviving contributors a sense of belonging but also inspire younger generations to serve the State with dedication, knowing their contributions will be remembered," he added.

The open letter has begun to generate discussion among stakeholders in Jalingo, with some agreeing that the sacrifices of state-creation pioneers like Captain Abdullahi Jalingo have been neglected for too long.

Adam ended his appeal by urging all citizens of Taraba to support the campaign for recognition, insisting that "history must not forget the hands that built the foundations of our dear State."