By Divine Sam

The member representing Gembu Constituency in the Taraba State House of Assembly, Abdulazeez Suleiman Titong, has denied allegations linking him to the suspension of Alhaji Babaji Abubakar Garba Jugulde as District Head of Wurbo Gashiri in Sardauna Local Government Area.

Titong, through a statement signed by his aide, Aliyu Njidda Abdullahi, on Thursday, described the allegations as unsubstantiated and challenged their author to provide credible evidence connecting him to the decision.

The statement also demanded a public apology over the author’s reported description of the lawmaker as a “bloody coward.”

The lawmaker maintained that his constitutional responsibilities as a legislator included lawmaking, constituency representation and promoting community development, rather than administering traditional institutions or determining chieftaincy matters.

“Attributing the suspension of a traditional ruler to the lawmaker without credible evidence was misleading and unfair,” the statement read.

“Decisions concerning traditional institutions should be examined within the context of applicable laws, established customs and relevant administrative procedures”, the statement added.

Titong’s aide further argued that the suspension of a traditional ruler was a serious issue that required a careful examination of the circumstances and procedures surrounding the decision, rather than conclusions based on speculation or political differences.

The statement challenged the author of the allegation to present verifiable evidence establishing any connection between the lawmaker and Jugulde’s suspension.

It also referred to controversies involving traditional rulers in Kano, Bauchi and Zamfara states, insisting that such cases should be examined individually based on their respective circumstances.

The aide warned that the controversy could distract attention from more pressing issues requiring unity, peace, effective representation and sustainable development in Gembu Constituency.

With preparations for the 2027 general elections gathering momentum, the statement urged politicians and social media users to focus on issue-based discussions and responsible public engagement.

While acknowledging the importance of constructive criticism of public officials, the aide stressed that criticism should be based on facts and communicated with civility.

He called on the author to withdraw the allegation linking Titong to the district head’s suspension unless credible evidence could be provided to substantiate the claim.

The statement also urged social media commentators to verify information before making allegations against public officeholders, warning against speculation and unsubstantiated claims that could undermine responsible public discourse.