The family of the ailing deputy governor of Taraba State, Alhaji Aminu Alkali, has dismissed claims that Governor Agbu Kefas abandoned him during his prolonged illness.
The family insisted that the governor has remained steadfast in supporting both the family and the medical treatment of his ailing deputy.
The first son of the deputy governor, Mallam Ibrahim Alkali, made the clarification while speaking with journalists at the family’s residence in Jalingo, the State capital.
He said the family decided to respond following reports circulating on social media alleging that Governor Kefas had neglected the deputy governor since he became ill.
According to Ibrahim, Governor Kefas has consistently demonstrated compassion and commitment by funding his father’s medical treatment from onset of the illness and maintaining close contact with the family throughout the period.
“We sincerely appreciate Governor Agbu Kefas for the love and support he has shown our father and our entire family. Without God and the governor’s intervention, the situation would have been much more difficult for us,” he said.
He explained that the deputy governor initially received treatment in Nigeria before he was flown to Egypt for advanced medical care.
“After returning to the country, he continued treatment in Jalingo and is currently undergoing routine medical reviews in Abuja.
“Despite the political pressure and rumours surrounding my father’s health, Governor Kefas never withdrew his support.
“He stood by him throughout the period and ensured him that every medical bill was taken care of,” the son added.
According to him, the deputy governor’s health has shown significant improvement.
He further disclosed that, beyond approving funds for treatment, the governor had also maintained regular personal visits to monitor the deputy governor’s condition.
Ibrahim urged politicians to stop exploiting his father’s health for political gain, describing the governor’s support as immeasurable.
“We appeal to those using my father’s health challenge to pursue political interests to desist. The governor has shown exceptional concern not only for my father but for our entire family,” he said.
Also speaking, the Permanent Secretary in the Office of the Deputy Governor, Alhaji Usman Madu, said all statutory entitlements due to the deputy governor had continued to be paid without interruption.
Alhaji Madu said Governor Kefas has consistently approved requests relating to the deputy governor’s medical care whenever presented.
“The governor has always responded promptly to issues concerning the deputy governor’s treatment. At no time has he hesitated to approve medical expenses since the health challenge began,” he said.
However, the family said the deputy governor was recovering steadily and has not stopped praising Governor Kefas for his unwavering support throughout the period.
Deputy Governor Aminu Alkali has been receiving medical attention since November, 2024, when he fell in, a development that fuelled political speculation in the state, with some stakeholders calling for his outright replacement.
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