A former governor of Taraba State, Jolly Nyame, says his imprisonment was politically motivated.

Nyame, who was the governor of Taraba State between 1999 and 2007, said he learnt a lot while in Kuje Correctional Centre in Abuja and in the hospital.

Nyame was sentenced to 14 years imprisonment in May 2018 after he was found guilty of diverting N1.64 billion in May 2007.

The former governor, who was also ordered by the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to refund the N1.64 billion diverted by him, was charged by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

In a 41-count charge of fraud, the EFCC accused Nyame of spearheading the fraudulent transfer of funds from the Taraba State’s treasury to a company, Saman Global, for the purchase of office equipment and stationeries that were never delivered.

He was also accused of fraudulently enriching himself and abusing public trust.

The former governor served only four years of a 14-year sentence.

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However, Nyame, while speaking at a thanksgiving service held recently at the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) secretariat in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital, said he was committed to becoming a more capable leader if granted a second chance to lead the state.

He said the experience had imparted invaluable lessons, moulding him into a better potential leader for the people of Taraba State.

“I learnt a lot while in Kuje prison and in the hospital. If given another opportunity to lead the people of Taraba State, I will do better because of the experience I have gained,” Nyame said.

He further stressed the significance of faith and resilience, urging leaders to stand strong in the face of challenges.

Nyame also enjoined Nigerians to exercise prudence in their expenses and called on the government to prioritse policies that improve citizens’ lives.

On his part, the CAN Chairman in Taraba State, Rev. Isaiah Magaji Jirapiye, said Nyame’s narrative and commitment to personal growth inspired those encountering challenges.

The Star