From Nahum Sule, Jalingo
The 2027 All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA) governorship candidate in Taraba State, Hon Danjuma Usman Shiddi, has urged Governor Agbu Kefas to reconsider the proposed Wukari Flyover Project, describing the estimated ₦80 billion project as a “misplaced priority.”
In an open appeal to the governor, Shiddi, popularly known as Danji SS, argued that Wukari and Taraba State currently face more pressing infrastructure needs, including healthcare, roads, bridges, education, and water supply.
He questioned the necessity of a flyover in Wukari, arguing that the town has not experienced the level of persistent traffic congestion that would ordinarily justify such a major investment.
According to him, the proposed funds could instead be used to establish and equip a specialist hospital in Wukari, rehabilitate critical roads and complete strategic bridges, including the Ibi Bridge, Chinkai crossing and the collapsed Namnai Bridge in Gassol.
Shiddi also raised concerns over the reported ₦65 billion loan secured by the state from Access Bank, urging the government to exercise caution in accumulating additional debt, particularly where borrowed funds are directed toward projects whose economic returns are uncertain.
He further called for greater accountability in the management of Taraba’s federal allocations, noting that the state has received substantial FAAC revenues in recent years while residents continue to face infrastructure and economic challenges.
“This is not politics. It is a genuine concern about priorities, accountability and the future of our state,” Shiddi said.
He urged Kefas to prioritise projects that can connect communities, reduce transportation costs, stimulate agriculture and trade, create jobs and improve access to healthcare and other essential services.
Shiddi maintained that development should be measured not by the size or cost of projects, but by their tangible impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.