Taraba Residents Speak Out: Two Years of Stagnation Under Gov. Kefas.

By Bashir ADAMU, Jalingo 

Taraba Residents Speak Out: Two Years of Stagnation Under Gov. Kefas.

By Bashir ADAMU, Jalingo 

Residents of Taraba State are expressing deep disappointment and frustration over the lack of progress in infrastructure development under Governor Agbu Kefas' administration. Despite promises of transformation and significant investments, the state has seen little to no improvement in its infrastructure.

In a failed promise, many residents, including Dr. Kefas Nyajo, Andrew Ada, Ambita Ezra, Musa John Adi, and Titus Habu Kona, have spoken out about the stagnation, citing a lack of notable projects or initiatives that have positively impacted the state. They point to the failure to utilize a €25 million loan from the European Investment Bank, intended for rural road construction, as a prime example of the administration's ineffectiveness.

The residents are also concerned about the state's poverty index, which has reportedly placed Taraba among the top poorest states in Nigeria. They attribute this to the poor performance of Governor Kefas' administration and are calling for prayers and fasting to help liberate the state from its current situation.

The residents are urging the government to take immediate action to address the state's infrastructure challenges and improve the lives of its citizens. They are also questioning the recent invitation of President Bola Tinubu to Taraba, seeing it as a reflection of Governor Kefas' failure to deliver on his promises.

"We have found ourselves in an era of failed promises; Not even half a kilometer of road has been constructed. This is the worst government we have seen since Taraba state was created; Taraba state needs prayers."

The situation in Taraba State highlights the need for effective governance and infrastructure development to improve the lives of its citizens.

Meanwhile, the recent data released by the National Bureau of Statistics, under Multidimensional Poverty Index (MDPI) survey, shows Taraba state has a poverty rate of approximately 87.72%, ranking it among the top three poorest states in Nigeria, alongside Sokoto (87.73%) and Jigawa (87.02%).

However, more recent data suggests a worsening situation.

Main factors contributing to poverty in the state include; Low Access to Education: The state has a high illiteracy rate, which correlates with poverty levels. Taraba, have weak appetites for education, contributing to poverty; Limited Economic Opportunities: Taraba has fewer commercial enterprises and insecurity, making the state highly dependent on government aid. Income Inequality: Nigeria's income inequality is estimated at 35.1, indicating a significant gap between the rich and the poor.

Furthermore, Poverty Impact include; Human Development: Taraba's human development index is affected by poverty, with limited access to improved drinking water (44.6% lack access) and sanitation facilities (51.7% lack access); Economic Growth: Poverty hinders economic growth, as a significant portion of the population lacks the skills and resources to engage in high-level economic activities.

Overall, Taraba State's poverty situation requires urgent attention, with a multi-faceted approach addressing education, economic opportunities, and infrastructure development.