The Deputy Governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, has officially returned to Jalingo, the state capital, after spending several months on medical leave. His return on Monday marks a significant development in the political and administrative landscape of the state, as concerns had been raised in recent weeks over his prolonged absence.
Alkali, who had been away from public duties since January 2025, was welcomed by a crowd of jubilant supporters, government officials, and traditional leaders at the Danbaba Suntai Airport in Jalingo. His return was described as a moment of relief for the government and citizens alike, many of whom had expressed hope for his speedy recovery and return to office.
In a brief address at the airport, the Deputy Governor expressed gratitude to the people of Taraba for their prayers, patience, and support during his period of illness. He acknowledged the efforts of Governor Agbu Kefas and other members of the administration who had held forth in his absence, assuring citizens that he was ready to resume his duties with renewed strength and commitment.
“I am deeply humbled by the love and concern shown by the people of Taraba State. Your prayers and support played a major role in my recovery. I am back now, and by the grace of God, I am fully ready to continue working with His Excellency, Governor Kefas, and the entire team to ensure we fulfill our promises to the people,” Alkali stated.
The nature of his illness was not disclosed, and government officials have remained tight-lipped on the specifics. However, sources close to the Deputy Governor confirmed that he had been receiving medical treatment abroad for a condition that required prolonged observation and rest.
Governor Kefas, who was reportedly out of the state on official assignment during Alkali’s return, conveyed his welcome message through the Secretary to the State Government, Barr. Gebon T. Kataps. The governor, in his message, expressed joy at the Deputy Governor’s recovery and return, describing it as a “positive sign for the unity and continuity of governance in Taraba State.”
“The return of His Excellency, the Deputy Governor, is a source of joy for us all. We are glad to see him back in good health and high spirit. The administration has missed his presence, and we look forward to having him back fully on board to continue the important work we began together,” the statement read.
Alkali’s prolonged absence had sparked rumors and political speculation, with some stakeholders questioning the transparency of the government regarding his health status and the functioning of the Deputy Governor’s office. There were also concerns about the potential impact of his absence on administrative efficiency, especially in areas where he had been particularly active, including border communities, inter-ethnic reconciliation efforts, and agricultural development projects.
Reacting to the Deputy Governor’s return, the Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, lauded the development and called for renewed cooperation among all arms of government. He emphasized the importance of unity and collaboration in moving the state forward, noting that the return of the Deputy Governor would help stabilize political discourse in the state.
“We thank God for the safe return of our Deputy Governor. His presence will certainly bring back balance and energy to the executive arm. We urge all political actors to set aside their differences and focus on the development of our dear state,” Bonzena said.
Traditional rulers and community leaders from across the state have also expressed satisfaction with the Deputy Governor’s return, describing it as a blessing to the state. In separate messages, several local chiefs and emirs emphasized the importance of having a complete leadership team in place, particularly as the state faces ongoing challenges such as insecurity, youth unemployment, and infrastructure development.
Alhaji Aminu Alkali, who hails from the northern zone of Taraba State, was elected alongside Governor Kefas during the 2023 general elections. Known for his calm demeanor and strong grassroots connection, Alkali has been instrumental in fostering inter-communal dialogue and supporting agricultural initiatives aimed at empowering rural farmers.
With his return, political watchers anticipate a reactivation of some dormant initiatives he had championed prior to his leave. These include the rural health outreach programme, youth skill acquisition centers, and the ongoing peace-building missions in conflict-prone areas of the state.
The Deputy Governor is expected to meet with Governor Kefas later in the week to discuss his official reintegration into the executive duties of the state. Meanwhile, preparations are underway for a formal reception and thanksgiving event which, according to insiders, will be organized by his political associates and supporters in the coming days.
For many residents in Jalingo, the return of Alhaji Aminu Alkali is not just a political event, but a deeply emotional one. Among the crowds that gathered at the airport were youth groups, market women, religious leaders, and members of civil society, all chanting welcome songs and displaying placards with inscriptions such as “Welcome Back Our Leader,” and “Taraba Stands With You.”
His arrival signals a new phase for the Taraba State government, with expectations now high that the full executive team will work more closely and intensively to deliver on their promises.
As the political dust settles following his return, attention is now turning to how the Deputy Governor will navigate reentry into public office, rebuild momentum, and help chart a stronger path forward for the state.
