The Taraba State government has provided an update on the prolonged absence of Deputy Governor Aminu Alkali, confirming that he has been receiving medical treatment after suffering a stroke. Officials assured the public that Alkali is recovering and is expected to return to his duties soon.
Concerns had been growing among residents and political stakeholders about the deputy governor’s whereabouts, as he has not been seen in public since November 2024. Addressing the issue after a State Executive Council meeting on Monday, the Commissioner for Information and Reorientation, Zainab Usman, explained that Alkali’s health condition required him to seek treatment outside the country.
“Sometimes around November last year, His Excellency had an ailment that necessitated his movement to Abuja for treatment,” Usman said. “From Abuja, he was later moved to Cairo, Egypt for further checks and the commissioner of health was delegated to check on his health status.”
Usman noted that the deputy governor’s stroke affected his ability to speak but reassured the public that he is making significant progress. She urged the people of Taraba to show understanding and compassion, emphasizing that illness can affect anyone, regardless of their position.
“Taraba residents need to sympathize with the executive council, His Excellency, and the deputy governor as per his health condition,” she added.
Regarding legal concerns over Alkali’s extended absence, Usman clarified that there is no constitutional requirement for a deputy governor to be removed after 90 days away from office.
“Let me come in as a lawyer now. From my background, this principle of 90 days applies only to a sitting governor of a state, not the deputy. His determination or eligibility to be in office is all determined by the governor,” she stated.
The Commissioner for Health, Bordiya Buma, who recently visited Alkali in Egypt, also shared an update on his condition.
“He had a stroke, which affected a part of his body, weakness in one part of the body. His ability to talk was affected but glory be to God the treatment is still ongoing and we are happy with the current treatment he is receiving,” Buma said.
The commissioner added that the deputy governor is expected to return soon to resume his duties once he has fully recovered.
