NGO wants Taraba governor-elect to declare state of emergency on education

The Taraba Volunteer Group, a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), on Saturday, urged the state’s Governor-elect, Mr Darius Ishaku, to declare state of emergency on education as soon as he assumes office.

The Coordinator of the group, Mr Terence Joseph, who disclosed this at a press conference in Jalingo, said the call was imperative because Taraba had the highest number of school drop-outs in the North East.

He said “it is very disturbing to hear that Taraba has the highest number of school drop-outs in the entire North East.

“That is why we are calling on the governor-elect to, as a matter of urgency, introduce free education as soon as he assumes office come May 29.

“This will not only enhance greater access to education by all, but also improves the sector’s infrastructure.

“If the governor-elect wants history to remember him, he must turn around this ugly situation where our so-called future leaders cannot afford the mandatory WAEC examination fees.’’

Joseph also appealed to Ishaku to engage at least 40 per cent of vibrant youths in his cabinet for improved service delivery.

He said the youths could be utilised in harnessing the huge agricultural potential of the state, stressing that “agriculture is the largest employer of labour, therefore, it must be rejuvenated.

“The key to success in agriculture is having a mechanised system which enhances productivity on commercial bases.

“However, the condition of our Tractors Hiring Unit, which cannot boast of 10 effective tractors, is worrisome and needs urgent attention.’’

The group’s coordinator also called on Ishaku to assiduously work for the peaceful coexistence of Taraba people and to ensure that he resettled and rehabilitated all Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs), especially those in the southern part of the state.