By Terna Chikpa
A nephew of former Minister of Defence, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma, Mr. Dinshiya Usman, has joined the Taraba State governorship race under the Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party.
The aspirant disclosed this on Wednesday at the party secretariat in Jalingo, stating that he would unlock the economic potential of Taraba State and place the state on the path of sustainable development if given the mandate to serve.
Mr. Usman, a former Coordinator of the North East Development Commission representing Taraba State, said he joined the race after extensive consultations with stakeholders, including traditional rulers, community leaders, and political leaders across the state.
“Taraba is blessed beyond measure. We have rich agricultural land — over four million hectares of arable land, of which only about one million hectares have been cultivated.
“We also have major rivers such as the Benue, Taraba, and Katsina Ala rivers, as well as the Nwonyo Ox-Bow Lake, abundant mineral resources with 42 mineral occurrences in commercial quantities, breathtaking tourist attractions, diverse cultures, hardworking men and women, and talented youths.
“Despite these overwhelming blessings, the majority of our people continue to struggle and live in abject poverty.
“Too many young people remain unemployed, farmers lack the support they need to thrive, many roads remain deplorable and impassable, healthcare facilities are crumbling and neglected, and businesses are struggling to survive.
“If elected, I will harness these God-given blessings to unlock economic growth in our state, accelerate all-round development, and explore renewable energy opportunities to power rural communities, support businesses, and improve livelihoods.
“I will unlock the enormous tourism potential of Taraba and position the state as a destination of choice for visitors, investors, and development partners.
“Above all, I will preserve and strengthen the peace that remains the foundation of our collective progress,” he said.
Usman also pledged to improve the quality of education by supporting teachers and expanding access to technology in order to prepare children for opportunities in the modern world.
He urged the people of the state to join him in his quest to end the era of failed promises and dashed hopes, and collectively place Taraba State on the path of development.
Meanwhile, the Nyesom Wike-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party in the state had, on Monday, May 25, 2026, affirmed Emmanuel Bwacha as its governorship candidate.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA reports that the affirmation of Senator Bwacha was witnessed by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission and political stakeholders across Taraba State.
PERISCOPE NIGERIA also reports that former Minister of Labour and Productivity, Joel Ikenya, has reportedly purchased the governorship nomination form under the Turaki-led faction of the Peoples Democratic Party.