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Nyame and Maigari: Lessons on the complexities of political relationships
Nyame and Maigari: Lessons on the complexities of political relationships
By Rikwense Muri
The political landscape in Nigeria has always been an interesting, albeit complicated, terrain. In the state of Taraba, the dynamics were further exemplified by the relationship between His Excellency Rev Jolly Nyame, the former Executive Governor of Taraba State, and his former Deputy Governor, His Excellency Barr Uba Maigari. Their partnership was marred by personal and political differences, leading to a fallout that ultimately resulted in Maigari’s impeachment and disgrace out of office. However, the lessons learned from their tumultuous relationship have become an impactful case study in political mentorship, resilience, and the power of reconciliation.
Rev Jolly Nyame was elected as the Executive Governor of Taraba State in 1999 and served two terms in office. During his tenure, he was known for his commitment to the development of the state and his unwavering dedication to public service. Barr Uba Maigari, on the other hand, was his Deputy Governor, handpicked by Nyame to serve as his second in command. Their alliance was initially seen as a formidable force for the progress of Taraba State, with the hopes of a harmonious working relationship. However, as their time in office progressed, differences began to surface, leading to a rupture in their once amicable partnership.
The rift between Nyame and Maigari escalated, leading to the latter’s impeachment and subsequent ousting from the position of Deputy Governor. In the aftermath of the political turmoil, Maigari found himself ostracized and out of favor in Taraba State. However, rather than succumbing to defeat, he chose to seek political relevance and mentorship outside of the state. He displayed resilience and determination in the face of adversity, recognizing the need to reestablish himself in the political arena. Today he is the only Honourable Minister in the cabinet of President Bola Tinubu, the rallying point of APC in Taraba State and one of those Rev Jolly Nyame look up to as political leaders in Taraba State.
Maigari’s journey to political redemption serves as a powerful lesson in the importance of adaptability and the ability to cultivate new alliances. He recognized the significance of aligning himself with influential figures and sought mentorship and guidance from leaders with a broader political influence. It was through this strategic maneuvering that he was able to regain his relevance and ultimately secure a ministerial position, solidifying his status as a dependable ally to Rev Jolly Nyame.
The lessons from the lives of Rev Jolly Nyame and Barr Uba Maigari are profound, highlighting the significance of forgiveness, reconciliation, and the ability to overcome personal and political differences for the greater good. Their rekindled alliance serves as a testament to the transformative power of humility and the willingness to set aside grievances in pursuit of a common goal. It also underscores the importance of seeking mentorship and guidance from experienced leaders, demonstrating the impact of aligning oneself with influential figures in the political sphere.
In conclusion, the lives of Rev Jolly Nyame and Barr Uba Maigari offer valuable insights into the complexities of political relationships and the resilience required to navigate the intricate web of governance. Their journey from conflict to reconciliation and renewed partnership exemplifies the enduring value of forgiveness, mentorship, and the power of political redemption. As a result, their story will continue to serve as a compelling case study for aspiring politicians and leaders in Nigeria and beyond.
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Gallant Troops Overrun Terrorist Camps in Dajin Madam Forest, Neutralise Two Bandits in Plateau
Gallant Troops Overrun Terrorist Camps in Dajin Madam Forest, Neutralise Two Bandits in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Gallant troops of the Nigerian Army’s 33 Artillery Brigade have launched a major offensive against terrorist and bandit hideouts in Dajin Madam Forest, straddling Kanam and Wase Local Government Areas of Plateau State, destroying several camps and neutralising two armed criminals during successive encounters.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the operation commenced at about 11:00 a.m. on Nov. 8, 2026, with troops advancing into the forest in a coordinated offensive against criminal elements operating within the area.
During the operation, the troops successfully cleared several terrorist camps across five identified locations within the forest, denying the criminals access to their established hideouts and support infrastructure.
The troops subsequently destroyed and burnt the terrorists’ life-support structures, including facilities believed to have sustained their presence and operations in the forest.
The offensive gathered momentum at about 3:41 p.m. when troops made contact with the armed bandits at another location within the forest.
The soldiers engaged the criminals with superior firepower, forcing them to withdraw in disarray.
Evidence of the effectiveness of the engagement was indicated by bloodstains observed along the bandits’ withdrawal routes, suggesting that some of the fleeing criminals might have sustained gunshot injuries.
Undeterred, the troops continued exploiting the general area, leading to the recovery of a significant cache of ammunition, communication equipment, mobility assets and other logistics.
Items recovered included 135 rounds of 7.62mm NATO ammunition, PKT ammunition links, two motorcycles, two drums of Premium Motor Spirit (PMS), two communication radios and four mobile phones.
The troops also recovered three woodland and desert camouflage uniforms, two Keystone camouflage uniforms and other sundry items believed to be associated with the activities of the criminal group.
In a further demonstration of sustained combat pressure, the troops made another contact with the fleeing bandits at about 6:30 p.m. during a pursuit operation.
The soldiers engaged the criminals, neutralising two bandits close to Kukawa village in Kanam Local Government Area.
Two additional motorcycles were also recovered during the encounter.
Following the successful engagements, the troops moved to a harbour position at Kukawa, where they continued to maintain their operational presence in the area.
The operation represents a significant offensive against armed criminal networks using the Dajin Madam Forest corridor as a hideout, with the destruction of their camps, recovery of ammunition and logistics, and the neutralisation of two bandits further disrupting their operational capabilities.
The sustained advance by the troops also illustrated the Nigerian Army’s determination to deny terrorists and bandits safe havens in the forests linking Kanam and Wase, while maintaining pressure on fleeing elements.
Gallant Troops Overrun Terrorist Camps in Dajin Madam Forest, Neutralise Two Bandits in Plateau
ECOWAS Inspection Team Assesses Readiness of Nigerian Standby Force in Ondo
By: Zagazola Makama
An inspection team from the ECOWAS Force Headquarters and Army Headquarters has assessed the operational readiness of Nigeria’s ECOWAS standby force at Naquora Barracks in Okitipupa Local Government Area of Ondo State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that the team, led by Brig.-Gen. Sheikh Sulaiman Massaquoi, visited the barracks on Nov. 7, 2026, to evaluate the troops’ preparedness for possible deployment.
The team received briefings on troop readiness, training and administrative matters, and witnessed demonstrations on roadblock operations and crowd dispersal.
Massaquoi commended the troops for their performance and urged them to sustain high standards of professionalism, discipline and physical fitness.
The inspection visit ended without any incident.
ECOWAS Inspection Team Assesses Readiness of Nigerian Standby Force in Ondo
Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt, Rescue Gunshot-Wounded Victim in Plateau
By: Zagazola Makama
Troops of Operation Enduring Peace (OPEP) have foiled a suspected kidnapping attempt and rescued a gunshot-wounded victim along the Rafin Sanyi axis in Riyom Local Government Area of Plateau State.
Security sources told Zagazola Makama that troops of Sector 6 OPEP, deployed at Sopp, responded to a distress report at about 9:40 p.m. on Nov. 6, 2026, after suspected kidnappers blocked the road in the area.
The swift intervention of the troops reportedly forced the criminals to flee before they could carry out their operation.
The troops subsequently combed the area and rescued one occupant of a Sharon vehicle who had sustained a gunshot wound.
The victim was evacuated to the Nigerian Army Medical Outpost at Tigi, where he received first aid treatment.
Troops have continued to dominate the general area through fighting patrols to prevent the criminals from regrouping and forestall further attacks.
Troops Foil Kidnap Attempt, Rescue Gunshot-Wounded Victim in Plateau
Gallant Troops Overrun Terrorist Camps in Dajin Madam Forest, Neutralise Two Bandits in Plateau
Troops Recover AK-47 Rifle, Discover Suspected Bandit’s Corpse in Old Oyo National Park
ECOWAS Inspection Team Assesses Readiness of Nigerian Standby Force in Ondo
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