By Ben Adaji
It was jubilation galore on April 17 as Chief (Dr.) David Sabo Kente, popularly known as DSK, arrived at the Danbaba Suntai Airport in Jalingo to a rousing welcome ahead of his recognition by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Taraba State Council, as the Philanthropist Man of the Year.
The fanfare at the airport turned into a political statement, as thousands of jubilant supporters displayed placards that read: “DSK, Come and Rescue Taraba State,” “2027: DSK is Our Choice,” and “Tarabans Yearn for DSK.” The crowd, which cut across the northern, central, and southern zones of the state, left no doubt about a growing grassroots movement rallying behind the man many now regard as the state’s best hope for 2027.
Chief Kente, whose philanthropic strides have touched countless lives in health, education, skills acquisition, infrastructure, and social empowerment, was honoured during the NUJ Press Week, commemorating 70 years of journalism in Nigeria.
Speaking at the event held at the C-to-C Event Centre in Jalingo, the NUJ Chairman, Comrade Matthew Elud-Jen, said Kente was selected for the award based on his outstanding and consistent service to humanity.
“Chief David Sabo Kente stands out as a man whose generosity knows no bounds,” Elud-Jen declared. “He has distinguished himself in ways that are unmatched across Taraba State.”
Also speaking at the event, the Chairman of the occasion, Ambassador John Musa, praised Kente’s enduring commitment to societal development, stating, “DSK, Taraba is proud of you.”
Kente, a renowned businessman and APC chieftain, is the founder of DSK Group International Ltd and the DSK Foundation, a non-profit that has provided scholarships, supported orphans, empowered youths, and constructed essential infrastructure such as bridges and culverts in rural communities.
He was recently honoured with an honorary doctorate degree by Kwararafa University, Wukari, during its combined convocation ceremony—further cementing his status as a leader whose influence transcends politics.
Kente’s popularity is not only anchored on philanthropy. His political experience runs deep. In 2015, he contested the Taraba State governorship election under the Social Democratic Party (SDP), where he gave the PDP’s Darius Ishaku a strong challenge. He later joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in 2016 and contested for the party’s governorship ticket in 2023 but lost to Senator Emmanuel Bwacha under controversial circumstances.
As the 2027 elections approach, growing sections of the state are calling on Kente to throw his hat in the ring once more. His supporters argue that he has the charisma, capacity, and grassroots appeal to unite the APC and challenge the PDP’s dominance in the state.
A former commissioner and APC stalwart, Hon. Shuaibu Ataka, spoke to our correspondent after the NUJ award presentation:
“Given the dismal performance of the current administration, the APC has a real chance to take over Taraba in 2027—if the party gives the ticket to someone like Chief Kente who commands massive support.”
Minister of State for Regional Development, Alhaji Uba Maigari, recently echoed similar sentiments. He told journalists that internal party wranglings have been the APC’s greatest obstacle in Taraba, adding:
“We’ve all resolved to work together. Personally, I won’t contest for anything. I’ll work to ensure a free and fair process where someone like Kente, if chosen, can lead us to victory.”
One potential challenge to Kente’s candidacy is the zoning debate. He hails from Wukari in the southern zone, the same as incumbent Governor Agbu Kefas. With the South holding the governorship for 12 years by 2027—and possibly 16 if Kefas seeks re-election—many in the Central and Northern zones argue it’s time for power to shift.
Still, with rising public discontent over the current administration, many Tarabans appear ready to look beyond zoning.
“Kente understands the people. He has been with us. He feels our pain and sees our potential,” said Mr. Orya Clement, an elder statesman. “He’s a detribalized Nigerian and a problem-solver. If we want real change, he is the man to lead it.”
As 2027 draws closer, one thing is clear—Chief David Sabo Kente is not just being celebrated for his generosity. He is fast becoming a symbol of hope for a people yearning for transformation.