Taraba State may soon witness a major political shift, as Governor Agbu Kefas is reportedly considering defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC). His Special Adviser on Political Matters and Special Duties, Josiah Kente, confirmed the development on Tuesday, describing it as a strategic decision to enhance the state’s growth and federal inclusion.
In a statement issued in Jalingo, Kente said the calls for Kefas to align with the ruling party were not about political ambition but about the collective progress of Tarabans. He noted that the governor’s achievements in education, healthcare, and infrastructure would be better sustained with stronger support from the Federal Government.
“This call is not about partisan interest but the collective aspiration of the people of Taraba for sustainable progress, infrastructural transformation, and inclusion in national affairs,” Kente stated.
He further explained that joining the APC would open doors for more federal projects, improved security cooperation, and access to donor-funded initiatives.
“With the governor’s alignment to the ruling party, Taraba stands to benefit from increased federal presence such as roads, bridges, hospitals, and power installations, which are often concentrated in states with stronger federal ties,” he added.
Kente praised Kefas for his “visionary leadership and courage,” saying his Moving Forward agenda could achieve greater impact through synergy with the Federal Government.
“It is only fitting that such visionary leadership is supported by an enabling political environment at the national level. The times call for bold and strategic decisions that put the people’s welfare above party sentiment,” he said.
He also called on Taraba stakeholders, youth groups, and opinion leaders to support the governor in what he termed a “realignment for growth and prosperity.”
Governor Agbu Kefas, elected in 2023 under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), has been lauded for his reform-oriented administration. However, if he officially joins the APC, it would mark the end of the PDP’s 26-year dominance in Taraba since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999, a move that could reshape the state’s political landscape.
There have been growing calls from various groups and individuals urging the governor to defect to the APC, arguing that the switch would attract more federal attention and development to the state.
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