By Yusuf Salihu Sansani, Jalingo
Dr. Saleem Iliyasu Goje, popularly known as Danmama, has continued to attract public attention in Taraba State and beyond, following the recent withdrawal of traditional titles previously conferred on him by three chiefdoms.
Goje, a 30-year-old entrepreneur from Jalingo and Chief Executive Officer of Danmama Homes Ltd, has become a familiar name due to his philanthropic activities, youth-focused campaigns, and public engagements across Nigeria.
His initiatives, particularly in empowering young people and advocating for greater inclusiveness in governance, have won him a growing following.
Until recently, Dr. Goje held three traditional titles: Danmalikin Zing from the Zing Chiefdom, Jagoran Sardauna from the Sardauna Chiefdom, and Sardaunan Gassol from the Gassol Chiefdom.
In separate letters signed by the secretaries of the respective traditional councils, the titles were simultaneously withdrawn without specific reasons stated.
The development has sparked mixed reactions in Taraba State. While some observers believe the withdrawals were linked to remarks Goje made at a recent youth gathering in Jalingo, others view the move as an internal decision of the traditional institutions.
Kamal Hammajo Adam, an advocate for North East development, described the action as “worrying” and cautioned against the perception that traditional institutions were being influenced by political considerations.
He noted that traditional leadership had historically been regarded as impartial custodians of justice and order.
Similarly, public affairs analyst Rikwense Muri expressed concern about the implications of the decision on the value of traditional honours, warning that frequent withdrawals could undermine their prestige.
Meanwhile, supporters of Dr. Goje have rallied around him, insisting that the setback has only strengthened their resolve.
Musa Yusuf Mohammed, a member of the “Danmama Movement,” described the development as “a mark of success” for their principal, pledging continued loyalty.
Despite the controversy, Dr. Goje’s popularity, particularly among youths in Taraba, continues to grow as he maintains his philanthropic engagements and advocacy across the country.
