I wish to personally commend the Governor of Taraba State, His Excellency Dr. Agbu Kefas, for the thoughtfulness and courage demonstrated in issuing these three Executive Orders aimed at strengthening security, public safety, environmental protection, and political stability in the state, particularly as we approach the 2027 general elections.

These proactive measures have significantly addressed some of the concerns of our people ahead of the forthcoming campaign season. I believe that if properly and fairly implemented, these orders can contribute meaningfully to creating a peaceful and secure environment for all citizens.

### 1. Executive Order on Combating Drug Abuse

This Executive Order is a welcome development, particularly at a time when drug abuse poses a serious threat to the future of our young people. It will, hopefully, serve as a strong warning to those involved in the illicit sale, distribution, and trafficking of drugs that Taraba State will not be a safe haven for such activities.

The devastating consequences of drug abuse on our youth, families, communities, and society at large cannot be overemphasized. Therefore, every genuine effort to curb this menace deserves the support of all well-meaning citizens.

I urge all law-abiding citizens to support and comply with this order. Those who violate the law should be made to face the full weight of the law, irrespective of their status or political affiliation.

### 2. Executive Order on Political Thuggery and Electoral Peace

Your Excellency, I particularly commend this Executive Order because of its significance to the political environment in Taraba State.

As a participant in the political process and a member of the opposition, I understand the concerns that often arise during election periods, especially regarding political violence, intimidation, and the activities of political thugs.

Historically, political violence has sometimes been associated with supporters of the ruling party, particularly where there is a perception that such individuals enjoy official protection. This has often left opposition members feeling vulnerable and constrained in exercising their democratic rights.

I am therefore encouraged by this Executive Order because, if sincerely implemented, it can provide an enabling environment where democracy can flourish—where every political party and candidate can move freely, campaign openly, canvass for votes, and engage the electorate without fear or intimidation.

My earnest prayer is that this order will be strictly and impartially enforced, and that justice will be administered fairly to all.

The government of the day must lead by example by ensuring that its supporters and political associates are properly enlightened and made to understand that political thuggery, intimidation, and violence have no place in a democratic society.

There must be equal protection for all—whether supporters of the ruling party or members of the opposition.

### 3. Executive Order on Illegal Mining and Environmental Protection

I am equally pleased that the Taraba State Government has acknowledged the serious concerns surrounding illegal mining and environmental degradation, issues which I previously raised in my first Open Letter to the Governor.

The reckless exploitation of our natural resources has consequences for our environment, livelihoods, communities, and the future economic prosperity of our state. This Executive Order is therefore timely and represents an important step toward protecting Taraba’s natural resources and environment.

It is also a clear signal that unauthorized miners and those engaged in the reckless exploitation of our natural wealth should no longer operate with impunity.

However, I strongly advise the government to match this policy with decisive and sustained action. An Executive Order should not remain merely a policy statement on paper. Its true value will be measured by how effectively it is implemented and the tangible benefits it delivers to our people.

The protection of our natural resources must be accompanied by transparency, accountability, proper regulation, and enforcement that serves the interests of Taraba State and its people.

### My Position

Having carefully considered these three Executive Orders, I hereby declare my support for them and commend the Governor for taking these steps.

I appeal to every law-abiding citizen, political leader, candidate, and stakeholder who genuinely cares about the future of Taraba State to support these well-intended measures.

I also call on all my supporters to fully comply with the orders, maintain peaceful and responsible conduct throughout the electioneering period, and report any violations to the appropriate authorities.

Finally, I appeal directly to the ruling party and the government of the day to ensure that these orders are applied fairly and without exception. No individual, political party, supporter, or associate should be above the law.

Taraba belongs to all of us. We may belong to different political parties, but we share a common responsibility to protect our state, preserve peace, safeguard our environment, and ensure that the 2027 electoral process is peaceful, free, fair, and credible.

Thank you.

Signed:
Hon. Danjuma Usman Shiddi (Danji SS)
Governorship Candidate, All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA)
Taraba State