Taraba YPP Renounces Godfatherism, Adopts Merit-Based Politics

The Taraba State chapter of the Young Progressives Party (YPP) has announced a shift in its political ideology, pledging to abandon godfatherism in favour of a system anchored on service, merit, and accountability.

The declaration was made on Saturday during the official unveiling of the party’s secretariat in Jalingo, the state capital.

Speaking at the event, the party’s state chairman, Sahadu Hassan Abubakar, said the new direction reflects the party’s commitment to transparent governance and competence-driven leadership.

According to him, the move is aimed at restoring public confidence in the political process and ensuring that leadership positions are attained through ability, dedication, and service rather than political patronage.

“The focus now is on the people,” he said, adding that accountability and performance would remain key benchmarks for anyone seeking or holding public office under the party’s platform.

Abubakar described the newly inaugurated secretariat as more than just a physical structure, noting that it represents a hub for political transformation in the state.

“We are establishing a command centre for change, a home for the common man, and a sanctuary for every Taraban who believes that purposeful leadership is the only path to a progressive future,” he stated.

Also speaking, the party’s national chairman, Emmanuel Amakiri, urged residents of Taraba State to align with the party’s vision.

He stressed the need for unity and inclusiveness, assuring that the party would accommodate all citizens regardless of religion, ethnicity, or political affiliation.

The party leadership also called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to ensure a level playing field for all registered political parties and candidates, emphasising the importance of fairness in the democratic process.

Officials said the development marks a deliberate effort to redefine politics in Taraba State, with a focus on inclusive development and responsible governance.