A leading member of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, David Kente, has denied reports that he is attempting to persuade Governor Agbu Kefas to join the party. In a telephone interview with journalists in Jalingo, Kente clarified that while he has not been informed of any intention by the governor to defect to the APC, Governor Kefas has the right to join any political party of his choice.

According to Kente, rumors of his involvement in facilitating the governor’s potential defection are unfounded. He emphasized that as a prominent stakeholder in the APC in Southern Taraba, where the governor hails from, he would have been informed if such plans were underway. Kente expressed surprise at the accusations, stating that the governor’s potential defection remains speculative at this point.

Kente also revealed that he is facing pressure from various groups within the state to contest the governorship election in 2027. Notably, he had supported Governor Kefas’ election campaign in 2023 under the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), despite being a member of the opposition APC. However, Kente expressed disappointment that the current administration has failed to meet the people’s expectations during its first two years in office and has not recognized his contributions to the governor’s electoral success.

As a key player in the APC, Kente reiterated his loyalty to the party and acknowledged the significant role he played in Governor Kefas’ emergence as governor in 2023. He noted that his efforts have come at a personal cost, as he has been excluded from the state government. While Kente had previously stated that he would not contest against Governor Kefas in 2027, he hinted that he may reconsider if the people of Taraba overwhelmingly support his candidacy.

The developments in Taraba State highlight the complex dynamics of Nigerian politics, where alliances and party affiliations can shift rapidly. As the country approaches future elections, the actions of key stakeholders like David Kente will be closely watched, and their decisions may have significant implications for the state’s political landscape.