Agbu Kefas has defected to the APC, saying the move is driven by purpose, development, and the need to align Taraba State with federal opportunities.
Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has formally aligned his political future with the All Progressives Congress (APC), a decision that has reshaped the political landscape of the state and further strengthened the ruling party’s dominance at the national level.
With his entry into the APC, the number of governors elected on the platform of the party has now risen to 30, reinforcing its position as Nigeria’s most influential political organisation.
The governor’s official reception into the APC took place on Saturday, January 31, at a colourful ceremony in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital.
Party leaders, supporters, and stakeholders from within and outside the state gathered to witness what many described as a defining political moment for Taraba.
The event was presided over by the National Chairman of the APC, Nentawe Yilwatda, who formally presented the party’s flag to Agbu Kefas, thereby affirming him as the leader of the APC in the state.
The ceremony had initially been scheduled for an earlier date but was postponed by the party out of respect for the memory of members of the Nigerian armed forces and civilians who lost their lives during terrorist attacks in November 2025.
The APC leadership explained that it was necessary to allow a period of mourning before holding a celebratory political event.
Speaking at the reception, Yilwatda described the governor’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) as a bold and strategic decision.
He said the move came at a critical time when states require closer collaboration with the federal government to maximise development opportunities.
According to him, Agbu Kefas would now be better positioned to attract federal programmes, interventions, and infrastructural support under the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The APC chairman emphasised the party’s inclusive philosophy, noting that it remains open to all Nigerians regardless of background or previous political affiliation.
He stressed that the APC treats all states equally, adding that Taraba State would enjoy the same attention and priority as every other APC-controlled state across the federation.
Also addressing the gathering, the National Secretary of the APC, Ajibola Basiru, described the governor’s reception as a moment of collective pride for the party.
He noted that the APC has evolved into the largest political party in Africa, boasting a presence in every part of Nigeria.
Basiru said the growing influence of the party reflects the confidence Nigerians have in its leadership and governance approach.
According to Basiru, the decision of Agbu Kefas to join the APC is a reflection of the party’s expanding appeal and its ability to attract leaders who are focused on service delivery rather than partisan rivalry.
He added that the APC’s national spread is broader than that of many countries, making it a truly pan-Nigerian political force.
In his own remarks, Governor Kefas explained that his decision was driven by a clear sense of purpose and a desire to accelerate development in Taraba State.
He dismissed suggestions that the move was motivated by political survival, insisting that it was instead guided by a mission to deliver tangible benefits to the people.
“Today, I stand before you not to make noise, but to make meaning,” Agbu Kefas said, as he addressed party members and supporters.
He stressed that leadership should be about focus, vision, and results rather than political drama.
According to him, aligning with the APC would strengthen his administration’s capacity to implement policies that directly impact the lives of ordinary citizens.
The governor further explained that joining the APC would help his government fast-track key projects and reforms by leveraging support from the federal level.
He assured the people of Taraba State that his administration remains committed to improving infrastructure, security, education, healthcare, and economic opportunities.
Political observers believe that the defection of Agbu Kefas could have far-reaching implications for Taraba politics, particularly ahead of future electoral contests.
Analysts say the move may alter existing alliances and compel opposition parties to rethink their strategies in the state.
For many APC supporters in Taraba, the governor’s entry into the party signals a new chapter of cooperation between the state and the federal government.
They expressed optimism that the development would translate into increased investments, improved security, and accelerated socio-economic growth.
As Agbu Kefas settles into his new political home, expectations are high that the partnership between Taraba State and the centre will yield meaningful dividends.
Whether the move ultimately reshapes governance outcomes will be judged by the people, but for now, the defection has firmly placed Taraba State at the centre of national political discourse.
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