A significant political development is unfolding in Taraba State, Nigeria, as leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have expressed support for Governor Agbu Kefas, who is rumored to be considering a defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. This potential move is seen as a major realignment in the state’s political landscape.
The APC leaders and stakeholders gathered at the Jalingo residence of Danladi Baido, a former governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), to reaffirm their loyalty and pledge full support to Governor Kefas ahead of his anticipated move. The meeting brought together a broad coalition of APC figures, including the party’s state chairman, members of the APC Youth Forum, Concerned Citizens, APC Like Minds, and elders representing the 16 local government areas and two development zones of the state.
Those present at the meeting described the governor’s possible defection as “timely” and “strategic,” arguing that it would strengthen Taraba’s ties with the federal government and pave the way for greater infrastructural development, economic empowerment, and human capital growth. A.A. Liman, representing the NNPP bloc, emphasized the importance of political unity, declaring his full support for Kefas’ expected defection and noting that aligning Taraba with the APC-led federal government would accelerate development and open more empowerment opportunities for citizens.
The chief host, Danladi Baido, commended party leaders for recognizing Governor Kefas’ “progressive vision,” describing him as a “true leader with a transformative agenda” who governs beyond party, religious, or ethnic boundaries. Baido urged APC members, youth groups, and the electorate to rally behind the governor’s administration as he steers the state toward greater progress.
Elder statesmen and stakeholders at the meeting also lauded President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration for its growing interest in Taraba, citing recent federal appointments of indigenes from the state as evidence of inclusion. They expressed confidence that Governor Kefas’ alignment with the APC would deepen cooperation between the state and the federal government, bringing about expanded infrastructural and economic development.
As political realignments gain momentum, analysts suggest that Taraba may be on the brink of a new era, marked by closer collaboration with the federal government and a renewed focus on growth and development under Governor Kefas’ leadership. The potential defection of the governor is seen as a significant development that could have far-reaching implications for the state’s political landscape and its relationship with the federal government.