Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that his decision was driven by the need to deliver tangible development to the people of the state.
The governor announced his defection on Saturday in Jalingo at a well-attended rally that drew top APC leaders, including Vice President Kashim Shettima and the party’s National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwada.
Speaking at the event, Vice President Shettima described Kefas’ move as a welcome development, saying the nation was proud of the governor’s inclusive leadership style and commitment to unity in Taraba State.
According to Shettima, “The APC was built as a meeting point for development-minded Nigerians. Taraba is an integral part of this country with enormous potential, and today, it is a thing of pride that the state has joined this fold.”
He added that Governor Kefas had consistently demonstrated an understanding of Taraba’s diversity and urged party members to rally behind him to fast-track development in the state.
“We are very proud of Governor Kefas for his sense of inclusivity. He understands the complexity of Taraba and is working hard to keep the state united despite its differences,” the Vice President said, stressing that Kefas automatically becomes the undisputed leader of the APC in the state.
Also speaking, APC National Chairman, Professor Yilwada, said the governor’s decision to join the ruling party would help unlock Taraba’s vast economic and human resources.
“Taraba State is richly endowed, and this alignment with the APC will help the state realise its full potential. Both old and new members have equal rights, and as leader of the party in the state, we expect you to unite everyone into one indivisible family,” Yilwada stated.
In his address, Governor Kefas assured the people of Taraba that his defection was solely in their interest, insisting that it was not driven by personal ambition or political survival.
“This is a mission, not an ambition,” Kefas declared. “We did not shift for power but for purpose, and that purpose is to bring transformative development that will make life better for our people.”
He said his administration would focus on redefining the future of Taraba State through strategic alignment with the Federal Government, noting that such cooperation was necessary to attract investments and accelerate growth.
“I will not abandon the mandate given to me by the people. Rather, I will strengthen it and ensure fairness to all, regardless of political affiliation,” the governor said.
Kefas also praised President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a leader who understands governance and knows how to get things done.
“In President Tinubu, I see a man who understands leadership and delivery. Taraba State is open for business and open for development,” he added.
The defection marks a major political shift in Taraba State and is expected to reshape the political landscape ahead of future elections, as the APC consolidates its presence in the North-East.
Leave a Reply