The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State has accused the governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, of allowing emotions to override constitutional provisions in addressing the prolonged absence of his deputy, Alhaji Aminu Abdullahi Alkali, from office.

In a statement signed by its Publicity Secretary, Aaron Artimas, the party criticised the governor’s recent state-wide broadcast on the matter, describing it as “mere rhetoric” without offering any concrete solutions.

“The people of the state listened attentively to Governor Kefas’ address on the long absence of his deputy since last year, but the speech amounted to motion without movement. Eight months on, Taraba remains where it was regarding the fate of the Deputy Governor,” Artimas said.

The APC accused the governor of arrogating powers to himself “in a manner that smacks of a maximum ruler,” and faulted his reliance on religious sentiments to justify what it called government inaction.

While expressing sympathy for Alkali’s health challenges, the APC stressed that leaving him exposed to “wild insinuations and speculations” was counterproductive. The party noted that the constitution does not envisage a deputy governor being away from office for an extended or indefinite period, emphasising that the office is integral to governance and “not a spare tire.”

The statement urged the state government to engage Alkali’s family in sincere dialogue.

“If it becomes clear that he cannot fully perform his duties, he should be allowed to resign honorably, with all entitlements paid to aid his recovery,” the party suggested.

It further proposed that, as a mark of respect, his family or community be allowed to nominate a replacement to ensure fair representation in governance.

The APC insisted the matter is a constitutional and public accountability issue, not a personal one to be managed at the discretion of the governor. It concluded by wishing Alkali a quick and full recovery.