Public backlash as Taraba governor names 573 additional aides

Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas has expanded his administration by appointing an additional 573 officials, announced by Secretary to the State Government Timothy Kataps on Tuesday. This raises the total number of appointees to 707 this year, following an earlier appointment of 134 political aides.

Despite the unprecedented size of his government in the 33-year history of the state, the governor has yet to assign specific roles to the new appointees. However, they are expected to serve in various capacities such as heads and members of parastatal boards, advisers, and special and community assistants.

Governor Kefas has also indicated that further appointments are forthcoming, with batches three and four on the horizon. This surge in political appointments has been criticized, especially in a state with limited resources. Critics argue that the governor is using these appointments as a means to secure political loyalty rather than addressing the state’s pressing issues.

Political analyst Aliyu Abdullahi condemned the move, describing it as a poverty alleviation program for politicians rather than effective governance.

Last year, Kefas appointed 22 commissioners, five special advisers, two media aides, 11 board members to the state investment promotion agency, and six to the board of internal revenue.

The governor also procured hundreds of vehicles for his commissioners, advisers, lawmakers, and traditional rulers. However, not all new appointees will receive official vehicles, with distribution limited to special advisers, senior special assistants, and board chairmen.

Observers note that these appointments come amid unfulfilled promises and a struggle for survival among the populace, raising questions about the governor’s approach to governance and resource allocation in Taraba State