Book Description

JS Tarka occupies a unique place in the history of regionalism and nationalism in Nigeria among Nigerias historical greats: Awolowo, Ahmadu Bello and Zik; while also in a class of his own. In this book, the author reveals a political enigma and leader, his exemplary vision, aura, political sagacity, transformational charismatic leadership and the attractive personality that endeared him to his political contemporaries and the masses of the geographical geopolitical area referred to as Middle Belt. Joseph Sarwuan Tarka, the father of the Middle Belt politics, while he lived, pursued the good of his people in every way he could. His belief in political alliance and unity were central to the unity of the North and its political domination of that historic era. Unity was his religion, what he lived, fought, and died for. He was a great man whose contributions to Nigerias development were remarkable. It would not be an understatement to say that JS was the founder of the National Party of Nigeria and was able to bring all the minorities in Nigeria within the party. The entire Western Nigeria was won by UPN, the East by NPP, and the far North by PRP and GNPP. Shagaris presidency was decided by the minorities in Nigeria because of Tarka. From opposition politics to national statesmanship, Joseph Tarka grew to become one of Nigerias historic greats. He remains one of Nigerias greatest men.