Fresh twist in Taraba College of Agric crisis as govt orders acting rector to take charge

The leadership crisis at Taraba State College of Agriculture, Science and Technology (COAST) in Jalingo has taken an unexpected turn after the state Commissioner, Dr. Mike Dio Jen, ordered the immediate takeover by the acting rector, Alhaji Ibrahim Gimba Buba. This directive, issued on Monday, September 14, 2026, came in response to concerns that suspended rector Dr. Yakubu Ali Garjila had remained in his position despite being suspended by the state government.

Dr. Jen's order places the acting rector in charge of the college's administration, effectively removing Garjila from his role. The management of the institution is instructed to notify commercial banks of Garjila's removal as a signatory to their accounts. It is hoped that this action will clarify authority at the college and prevent Garjila from retaining administrative or financial control.

Garjila's persistent presence in the office has exacerbated tensions surrounding the leadership dispute, raising questions about the effectiveness of the state government's earlier directive. This latest development has positioned the acting rector as a key figure in resolving the crisis, as stakeholders await further actions from the government to restore stability to the institution.