Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has officially signed into law a ₦128.58 billion supplementary budget for the 2025 fiscal year. The signing, which took place over the weekend, also included the approval of a ₦47.12 billion virement previously passed by the Taraba State House of Assembly. The new financial package aims to fill urgent funding gaps across essential sectors such as security, infrastructure, education, and economic development. According to Governor Kefas, the supplementary budget will strengthen the state’s economic resilience and ensure adequate funding for developmental projects already in progress. Speaking during the signing ceremony, the governor emphasized that the additional budgetary allocation was necessary to enhance the delivery of key public services, especially in sectors that directly impact the lives of Taraba residents. He noted that the move aligns with his administration’s commitment to good governance, transparency, and inclusive growth. Governor Kefas also praised the Taraba State House of Assembly for its swift legislative support in approving the virement and supplementary budget, describing it as a demonstration of cooperation between the executive and legislative arms of government. He stated that the funds will be judiciously utilized to tackle pressing challenges, including improving internal security, accelerating road construction, boosting agricultural productivity, and investing in human capital development. The supplementary budget, according to government sources, reflects a strategic response to emerging economic realities and fiscal pressures. It is part of the administration’s broader effort to stabilize the state’s finances while addressing infrastructural needs that have long hindered growth and social development. Governor Kefas reiterated his administration’s determination to maintain financial discipline and ensure all expenditures are tied to measurable results that benefit the people of Taraba State. He urged ministries and agencies to prioritize accountability and timely project delivery. With the signing of the ₦128.58 billion supplementary budget into law, Taraba State is expected to witness improved funding for critical sectors, paving the way for economic expansion and sustainable development throughout 2025.
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has provided new details regarding the tragic death of his sister, Atsi Kefas, who was initially believed to have been killed by bandits along the Wukari-Chinkai Road in 2024. In a recent press briefing in Jalingo, the state capital, Governor Kefas revealed that investigations have determined that Atsi was fatally shot by a police escort assigned to his mother. The incident occurred while Atsi and their mother were traveling from Jalingo to Abuja. Governor Kefas expressed his deep sorrow, stating, “Life is very precious to me. You can’t just end someone’s life and think God will be happy with you. My younger sister was shot and killed by a police escort who was inside the same bus with her.” Further investigations revealed that Atsi was shot at close range, and pellets from the firearm were found in her body during surgery before she succumbed to her injuries. The police officer involved is currently under investigation to ensure that justice is served. This revelation contradicts earlier reports that suggested the vehicle transporting the governor’s mother and sister had been attacked by bandits attempting to kidnap them. Governor Kefas emphasized the importance of justice and accountability in this matter. In addition to addressing his sister’s death, Governor Kefas spoke about the recent violent attack in Karim-Lamido Local Government Area, where over 50 people were reportedly killed. He observed a minute of silence in memory of his sister and the victims of the Karim-Lamido incident. The governor condemned the escalating violence in parts of the state and urged residents to choose peace and unity over conflict. Governor Kefas announced plans to establish a commission of inquiry to investigate the causes of the Karim-Lamido crisis and propose measures for lasting peace in the region. As of now, the Taraba State Police Command has not issued an official statement regarding the governor’s claims.
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A farmer has reportedly been killed and six others abducted by suspected bandits in Garbatau, located in the Bali Local Government Area of Taraba State. The deceased, Alhaji Mai Wanda Maibultu, was a large-scale farmer in the village, situated just a few kilometers from Garba Chede town. He was killed while working on his farm over the weekend. The six kidnapped farmers were taken from Garbatau village, a farming community nestled between two mountains. According to Adamu Dauda, a resident of Maihula town, the kidnappers have contacted the families of the abducted farmers, demanding a ransom of N100 million. Dauda further noted that last year, a similar situation occurred when armed kidnappers invaded the area, abducting numerous farmers and halting their crop harvests. He mentioned that the same scenario is unfolding now, with farmers unable to continue harvesting their crops due to the abductions. The Taraba State Police Command spokesperson, SP Usman Abdullahi, did not respond to calls, text messages, or WhatsApp inquiries regarding the incident. READ ALSO: Just In:Israeli warplanes kill eight more paramedics in Lebanon
