Stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba South have penned an open letter to President Bola Tinubu, urging him to consider their zone for ministerial and other top federal appointments.
In the letter signed by Jamilu Bawa, Chairman of Taraba APC Youth Forum, the stakeholders emphasized that Southern Taraba deserves such consideration due to its unwavering efforts in securing victory for the APC in the state.
The letter stated, “It is noteworthy that Southern Taraba APC produced the highest number of elected office holders. The zone produced a senator and both House of Representatives members. In the recent presidential elections, the southern zone of Taraba performed exceptionally well for the party, garnering 81,568 votes in the zone and 135,165 votes in the state.”
The group extended congratulations to Tinubu on his electoral success and prayed for his wisdom in leading the country, expressing optimism that he would possess the necessary tools and good health to guide Nigeria towards greatness.
“We congratulate you on your inauguration and the dawn of a renewed hope administration. This letter is timely as you consider forming a cabinet following the inauguration of the 10th assembly. As a committed progressive and dedicated democrat who appreciates hard work, we cannot delay in sending you this letter,” the letter read.
The APC youth group also drew attention to the individuals behind the party’s achievements in the last Presidential and National Assembly elections.
“Prior to the elections, the APC in Taraba faced simultaneous crises, which were widely known. The consequences of these crises were evident, even though you did not hold a presidential rally in Taraba like in other states. Despite the use of religion as a campaign weapon, some APC members in Taraba remained enthusiastic in supporting your candidacy. Notably, Southern Taraba, a Christian-dominated area, was the only place where a pre-election campaign rally for Bola Tinubu/Kashim Shettima took place,” the stakeholders explained.
The stakeholders highlighted a specific political rally held in Wukari on January 19, 2023, which was sponsored by prominent individuals and played a pivotal role in boosting the APC’s presence in Taraba State.
They emphasized that in politics, rewarding efforts is crucial and called for consideration of APC stakeholders in Taraba State for ministerial positions and other relevant appointments.
The letter further noted that since the formation of the APC in 2015, the Taraba Northern Zone has occupied all three ministerial slots from the APC government, while the Central Zone has enjoyed various leadership positions within the party and other federal appointments.
They expressed confidence in President Tinubu’s adherence to democratic principles and his belief in rewarding sacrifices.
“In line with your famous quote, it is ‘Emi Lo Kan’ for southern Taraba. Considering the role played by Southern Taraba stakeholders such as Sabo-Kente, Afukunyo, Ibrahim, Sangari, and others, we appeal to Mr. President to extend his focus to the zone in search of competent and honorable men for ministerial appointments in Taraba State,” concluded the letter from Taraba South APC stakeholders.