Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has confirmed plans to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), saying his decision was driven by a desire to foster unity and development across the state.
Kefas made the declaration on Tuesday during a high-level APC stakeholders’ meeting held in Jalingo, which brought together leading political figures, including former senators, acting governors, members of the House of Representatives, and grassroots leaders from all 168 wards in the state.
The meeting, described by observers as one of the most strategic political realignments in Taraba’s recent history, was convened by the governor to inform stakeholders of his intention to formally join the APC after the forthcoming local government elections.
Speaking at the event, Deputy National Women Leader of the APC, Hajia Zainab Ibrahim, lauded Governor Kefas for what she described as “an unprecedented show of political maturity and respect.”
“In the history of political defections in Nigeria, no sitting governor has ever gathered such a wide spectrum of stakeholders — from the ward to the national level — to formally notify them of his plan to join another party,”she said.
“This demonstrates Governor Kefas’ sincerity and commitment to building bridges for the progress of Taraba State.”
In his remarks, Governor Kefas urged political actors across party lines to set aside differences and work together for the peace and prosperity of the state.
“Let us close the chapter of division and open a new page for a greater Taraba,”
he declared.
“The future of our state depends on how well we can unite to serve our people beyond partisan lines.”
APC State Chairman, Hon. Ibrahim Tukur Elsudi, said the meeting offered stakeholders an opportunity to hear directly from the governor and confirm his intentions.
“We have listened to him and seen his genuine desire to work with everyone,”
Elsudi stated.
“Taraba APC will open its doors to all who come with clean hearts for the good of our state.”
Also speaking, APC National Vice Chairman (Northeast), Comrade Salisu Mustapha, commended the governor for adopting a transparent and consultative approach in his planned defection.
“By calling all stakeholders together, His Excellency has shown uncommon political wisdom and commitment to justice and fairness for all Tarabans,”Mustapha said.
The meeting, which was attended by a large delegation of party loyalists and supporters, ended with a call for unity and collective effort toward building a stronger and more inclusive APC in Taraba State.
Political analysts believe Kefas’ move could redefine the political dynamics in the state and trigger broader realignments across the Northeast ahead of future elections.
