By Emmanuel Awari, Jalingo
Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, has granted clemency to 24 inmates as part of activities marking Nigeria’s 66th Independence Anniversary.
Kefas disclosed this in a statewide broadcast on Thursday to commemorate the anniversary, saying he had exercised the prerogative of mercy in favour of the inmates whose cases had been duly reviewed.
“Acting pursuant to Section 212 of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 (as amended), and following consultation with the Taraba State Advisory Council on the Prerogative of Mercy, I have approved the exercise of the prerogative of mercy in favour of 24 inmates whose cases have been duly reviewed.
“This decision was guided by the law, the interests of justice, evidence of rehabilitation and humanitarian considerations.
“To the beneficiaries, I say: Society has offered you another opportunity. Use it responsibly. Return to your families and communities with a determination to live peacefully, obey the law and contribute positively to society.”
He said the act of mercy did not weaken the government’s commitment to law and order, but affirmed the belief that justice should protect society, correct wrongdoing and, where appropriate, give deserving individuals an opportunity for reform.
The governor also announced the approval of ₦500 million for TARABA CARES, a six-month Social Investment and Poverty Relief Programme running from October 2026 to March 2027.
“I first announced this programme during the celebrations marking Taraba State’s 35th anniversary in August. Our purpose is simple: to help vulnerable families meet essential needs and support opportunities for people to earn a living.
“Priority will be given to households facing severe hardship, including widows with dependants, older persons without reliable income, persons living with disabilities and other struggling families.
“The agencies responsible will publish the assistance available, the eligibility requirements and the registration process.”
Kefas also announced an additional ₦1 billion for the Taraba State Youth Development Agency, saying the funding would provide young people with practical opportunities to develop their abilities, earn a living and contribute to the growth of the state.
He further approved another ₦1 billion to provide relief and support recovery in crisis-affected communities in Karim Lamido and other affected parts of the state.
“To families who have lost loved ones, homes, livelihoods or the peace of their communities, I say: Your suffering matters to this Government, and we will stand with you,” he said.
Kefas said the three interventions represented ₦2.5 billion in approved funding for vulnerable households, youth empowerment and crisis recovery.
“Every naira must serve its intended purpose. I expect the responsible agencies to deliver, account for these funds and make the results visible to the people.”
The governor reaffirmed his commitment to the ongoing payment of pensions.
“You served Taraba, and your years of service deserve respect and dignity. Your welfare remains a priority, and we will continue working to meet our obligations to you.”
He also acknowledged the hardship caused by the collapse of Namnai Bridge along the Jalingo-Wukari Federal Highway.
“This bridge is an economic lifeline connecting families, farms, markets and communities. Since its collapse, our people have endured longer journeys, higher transportation costs, disrupted trade and dangerous river crossings.
“Tragically, lives have also been lost. I see your hardship. I hear your frustration. Repeated assurances without visible progress are no longer enough.”
Kefas appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Federal Ministry of Regional Development and the North East Development Commission for awarding and commencing the reconstruction of the bridge.
“But progress has not yet matched the urgency of the situation or the expectations of our people. This is not a time for blame. It is a time for action,” he said.
The governor directed the State Ministry of Works and Infrastructure, in collaboration with the Secretary to the Government of Taraba State, to immediately engage the North East Development Commission, the Federal Ministry of Regional Development and the contractor handling the project.
“Within seven days, I expect a verified report on the project’s status, the challenges affecting construction and a realistic timetable for sustained work and completion. The people will be informed of the outcome.
“The State Government is ready to provide every lawful form of cooperation required and to work with the relevant authorities on safer interim crossing arrangements.”
He said the government would continue to strengthen flood control, drainage, erosion management, early-warning systems and emergency preparedness across the state.
“As climate-related hazards increase, prevention must receive the same attention as response.
“The people do not need another speech about Namnai Bridge. They need a safe and completed bridge. That is the result we shall continue working to achieve,” he said.
The governor announced that the Taraba State 168-Ward Quick Impact Development Programme would be unveiled before the end of October 2026.
“Each ward will receive a small but visible project selected according to genuine local need,” he said.
According to him, communities would help identify their priorities, while success would be measured by completed projects and benefits delivered, rather than announcements.
Kefas also announced the Taraba Teachers’ Welfare, Professionalisation and Housing Programme, scheduled to begin in 2027.
“A time-bound implementation committee will consult teachers and their unions, review welfare and professional standards, examine sustainable salary improvements and develop a realistic housing programme, with particular attention to rural and underserved communities.”