Governor Agbu Kefas’ Defection to APC Ushers Taraba into New Era

The All Progressives Congress (APC) witnessed a historic and vibrant political spectacle in Jalingo, Taraba State, as Governor Dr. Agbu Kefaswas officially received into the ruling party in what many are describing as a defining moment in the state's political history.

The event, marked by pomp, pageantry, and a sea of jubilant supporters, culminated in the National Chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, formally presenting the party's flag to Governor Kefas, affirming him as the leader of the APC in Taraba State. Politicians, party chieftains, stakeholders, and citizens from across the state attended in full regalia, making it a truly colorful political carnival.

With this alignment, the APC now boasts 30 governors under the Progressive Governors Forum, further solidifying its position as the ruling party with national reach and influence.

Professor Yilwatda described Governor Kefas' move from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC as timely, courageous, and in the best interest of Taraba people. "His decision positions Taraba to fully benefit from federal programmes, policies, and interventions under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu," he said.

"The APC is the party at the centre, and in my Father's house, there are many mansions," Yilwatda added. "There is room for every Nigerian willing to join the APC. In our party, all states and all people are equal, and Taraba is as important as any other APC-governed state."

National Recognition and Party Solidarity

The National Secretary of the APC, Senator Ajibola Basiru, described Governor Kefas' reception as a moment of collective joy for the party nationwide. He noted that the APC has grown into the largest political party in Africa, with a membership spread wider than that of many sovereign nations. "The APC is truly a pan-Nigerian party," he said.

Vice President Kashim Shettima, who also attended the ceremony, called the defection personal and touching. He highlighted that the North East now has more governors under the APC platform and expressed optimism that neighboring state governors may align with the ruling party at the appropriate time. Shettima formally declared Governor Kefas the leader of the APC in Taraba State and urged members to rally behind him for unity and development.

Governor Kefas: Leadership with Purpose

In his address, Governor Kefas emphasized that his decision was driven by purpose, not politics for politics' sake. "Today, I stand before you not to make noise, but to make meaning; not to play politics, but to lead with focus," he said. He recalled that the event had been postponed in solidarity with the people of KebbiState during a recent kidnapping incident, underscoring his commitment to broader national and humanitarian concerns.

Addressing narratives around political defection, Governor Kefas stressed: "Some call this defection. I call it mission. I took this decision for the people of Taraba State—for our youths, to unlock their potential; for our women, to give them a sense of belonging; for our farmers, to boost productivity and ensure food security; and for the rapid development of infrastructure across all sectors."

The governor assured that his move was not for political survival but to fast-track development in the state. "I am not in the APC for survival; I am here for the progress of Taraba State. I will not abandon our collective will. I understand what it means to lead the people," he declared.

A Milestone for Taraba Politics

The defection of Governor Kefas has been described as a major milestone for the APC in Taraba State, reinforcing the party's alignment with the Federal Government and its commitment to inclusive growth, national cohesion, and accelerated development. The colorful reception, attended by party leaders, stakeholders, and citizens alike, signaled a new chapter in Taraba politics—one defined by unity, purpose, and a renewed drive for transformative governance.