Blog

Politics in Nigeria has always attracted a great deal of attention, not only because of its influence on governance but also due to the wealth that many politicians accumulate over time. Taraba State, located in the North-Eastern region of Nigeria, is no exception. Over the years, the state has produced notable political figures who have shaped its development and economy while amassing significant fortunes.

In this comprehensive article, we will explore the richest politicians in Taraba State and their net worth, their sources of wealth, and their roles in both state and national politics. The aim is to provide a well-detailed and easy-to-understand guide that will help readers get an insight into the financial and political strength of these figures.

Overview of Wealth in Taraba State Politics

Taraba State is blessed with natural resources such as agriculture, livestock, and mineral deposits, but the economy heavily relies on government spending. Politicians in the state often acquire wealth through salaries, allowances, contracts, business ventures, and in some cases, federal appointments.

The wealth of Taraba politicians is not just about money but also about their influence, investments, and legacies. Some of them have held high-ranking political positions such as governors, senators, ministers, and party leaders, which contributed to their financial growth.

Richest Politicians in Taraba State and Their Net Worth

Below is a detailed breakdown of the most influential and wealthiest politicians in Taraba State, their estimated net worth, and how they made their fortune.

1. Jolly Nyame – Estimated Net Worth: $350 Million

Jolly Tavoro Nyame, a three-time governor of Taraba State (1992–1993, 1999–2007), remains one of the most influential politicians from the state. His political career provided him with strong financial footing, alongside private business ventures.

• Sources of Wealth: Politics, business, agriculture, and investments.

• Key Achievements: Served as governor, implemented state infrastructure projects, and contributed to agricultural development.

• Net Worth Insight: His years in power and his investments after politics positioned him among the wealthiest in the state.

2. Darius Ishaku – Estimated Net Worth: $200 Million

Darius Dickson Ishaku, the immediate past governor of Taraba State (2015–2023), is another wealthy politician. A trained architect, Ishaku transitioned into politics and held ministerial positions before becoming governor.

• Sources of Wealth: Architecture, ministerial appointments, governorship allowances, and investments.

• Key Achievements: Improved infrastructure, promoted peacebuilding, and invested in education and rural development.

• Net Worth Insight: His blend of professional background and politics built his fortune.

3. Danbaba Suntai – Estimated Net Worth: $150 Million (Late)

Though late, Danbaba Danfulani Suntai, former governor of Taraba State (2007–2015), remains remembered as one of the wealthiest politicians during his time.

• Sources of Wealth: Politics, contracts, agriculture, and investments.

• Key Achievements: Strengthened healthcare and agriculture, built rural infrastructure, and left a legacy of governance.

• Net Worth Insight: His estate and assets still reflect his wealth during his active years.

4. Emmanuel Bwacha – Estimated Net Worth: $120 Million

Emmanuel Bwacha, a senator who has represented Taraba South, is also among the wealthiest politicians in the state. Known for his political influence, he has been a major player in Taraba politics for decades.

• Sources of Wealth: Legislative earnings, political influence, business ventures, and contracts.

• Key Achievements: Senator for multiple terms, facilitated federal projects to Taraba, and built strong political networks.

• Net Worth Insight: His political longevity ensured continuous financial growth.

5. Anthony Manzo – Estimated Net Worth: $80 Million

Anthony George Manzo, a medical doctor and politician, has served as a senator and Nigerian ambassador. His diverse career path has boosted his financial standing.

• Sources of Wealth: Medicine, diplomacy, politics, and business.

• Key Achievements: Former senator, diplomat, and healthcare promoter.

• Net Worth Insight: His unique combination of politics and medicine strengthened his financial profile.

6. Sani Abubakar Danladi – Estimated Net Worth: $70 Million

Sani Abubakar Danladi, a former acting governor and senator, is another wealthy figure in Taraba politics.

• Sources of Wealth: Politics, contracts, and private investments.

• Key Achievements: Briefly served as governor, represented Taraba North, and played roles in state development.

• Net Worth Insight: His short but impactful political career contributed to his wealth.

7. Abdulaziz Ibrahim – Estimated Net Worth: $50 Million

Abdulaziz Ibrahim is a politician and businessman who has represented Taraba in the Senate.

• Sources of Wealth: Politics, business, and investments.

• Key Achievements: Served as senator, engaged in business, and influenced regional politics.

• Net Worth Insight: His wealth stems from both business and politics.

8. Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan (Mama Taraba) – Estimated Net Worth: $45 Million (Late)

The late Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan, popularly known as Mama Taraba, was a lawyer, politician, and former minister. She was the first female governorship candidate with strong influence in Taraba.

• Sources of Wealth: Law, ministerial roles, politics, and investments.

• Key Achievements: Minister of Women Affairs, senator, and strong advocate for women in politics.

• Net Worth Insight: Her wealth and legacy remain notable even after her passing.

9. Victor Bala Kona – Estimated Net Worth: $35 Million

Victor Bala Kona, a former chairman of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Taraba State, also belongs to the wealthy class of Taraba politicians.

• Sources of Wealth: Politics, party administration, and private business.

• Key Achievements: Strengthened PDP’s presence in the state and built influence in governance.

• Net Worth Insight: His party role and investments boosted his wealth.

10. Haruna Manu – Estimated Net Worth: $25 Million

Haruna Manu, the current deputy governor of Taraba State, is among the younger wealthy politicians in the state.

• Sources of Wealth: Business, politics, and investments.

• Key Achievements: Served as House of Representatives member and deputy governor.

• Net Worth Insight: His growing political career and business ventures are expanding his fortune.

Summary Table of the Richest Politicians in Taraba State

Conclusion

The richest politicians in Taraba State demonstrate how politics in Nigeria often overlaps with wealth accumulation. From former governors like Jolly Nyame and Darius Ishaku to influential senators like Emmanuel Bwacha, these individuals not only shaped Taraba’s political landscape but also secured massive fortunes.

Their wealth highlights the intersection of governance, business, and influence in Taraba’s socio-political environment. Understanding their financial standing gives insight into how political power translates into long-term financial success in Nigeria.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is the richest politician in Taraba State?
Jolly Nyame, with an estimated net worth of $350 million, is considered the richest politician in Taraba State.

2. How do politicians in Taraba State make their money?
They earn wealth through political salaries, allowances, contracts, investments, businesses, and in some cases, federal appointments.

3. Is Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan (Mama Taraba) among the richest politicians?
Yes, the late Mama Taraba had an estimated net worth of $45 million, making her one of the wealthiest and most influential female politicians from the state.

4. Which former governors of Taraba are wealthy?
Jolly Nyame, Danbaba Suntai (late), Darius Ishaku, and Sani Abubakar Danladi are among the wealthiest former governors.

5. Does political office automatically make politicians rich?
Not automatically, but holding office provides opportunities for contracts, investments, and influence that often translate into wealth.

6. Who is the wealthiest female politician from Taraba?
The late Aisha Jummai Al-Hassan remains the wealthiest female politician from Taraba State.

7. Are current politicians in Taraba State as wealthy as past governors?
While some like Haruna Manu are growing in wealth, past governors generally have higher fortunes due to longer years in office and investments.

8. Can a regular businessman in Taraba be richer than politicians?
Yes, but politicians often have more visible and reported wealth due to their public roles and influence.