By Emmanuel Awari, Jalingo
Jalingo, Taraba State – Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has issued a stern warning to individuals and government agencies who have illegally converted government properties to their personal use. He urged them to return the properties immediately or face the full wrath of the law.
The Governor’s directive came during the presentation of a report by the Assets Assessment and Recovery Committee he recently established. The committee uncovered widespread misuse, diversion, and misappropriation of government assets across the country.
Governor Kefas emphasized that he is serious about tackling this issue. He stated, “I am not here to joke. This is an opportunity for me to serve the people. Tomorrow I might not be here. So for this time that I am here, the right thing must be done.”
He warned those holding onto government property that they face legal consequences if they fail to comply. “It is a very serious offence, it can lead somebody to jail,” he declared.
The Governor also issued a strong message to government officials who might delay acting on his directive. He warned that such inaction could have serious repercussions. “If you are directed to act, all the things that happened in 2023, some people think I don’t know. I have been watching, I have been understudying everybody,” he said.
Governor Kefas urged those in possession of government property to return it immediately. “Government thing is government thing,” he stressed. “Better return them back to the store so that it can be disposed appropriately.”
He assured those who cooperate that they will have the opportunity to participate in any auction or disposal process for the recovered assets. However, he warned that those who refuse to comply will face serious consequences.
The Governor commended the Assets Assessment and Recovery Committee for their thorough work. He expressed his confidence in their findings and assured them of his support. “I took my time to select and to also consult for input in the selection. That is why you turned in this report in this manner. I believe that there is no better group or committee that can do better than what you have done.”
Governor Kefas pledged to take immediate action on the committee’s recommendations. He stated that the government will review its budget to see what support can be provided to the committee members. He also hinted at the possibility of legal action against those who refuse to comply.
Governor Kefas’s stern warning sends a clear message that his administration will not tolerate the misuse of government property. His commitment to recovering stolen assets and holding those responsible accountable is likely to be met with mixed reactions. However, it is undeniable that his actions are necessary to address a serious problem that has plagued Taraba State for too long.