Rumour Will Soon Become Reality - Gov Kefas Hints at Imminent Defection to APC

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has hinted that he may soon make official his much-speculated defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), saying the move will be for the unity and progress of the state.

Speaking on Tuesday at an expanded stakeholders’ meeting involving leaders of both the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and APC from all 16 local government areas of the state, held at the Banquet Hall of TY Danjuma House in Jalingo, the governor said the lingering rumour would soon “become reality.”

The meeting, which was attended by top political figures, including the Minister of State for Regional Development, Uba Maigari; former Governor Jolly Nyame; North East APC National Vice Chairman, Dr. Mustapha Salihu; Deputy National Women Leader, Hajia Zainab Ibrahim; Taraba APC Chairman, Barrister Ibrahim El-Sudi; and TETFund Board Member, Sani Danladi, signalled growing political realignment in the state.

Governor Kefas, who expressed gratitude to APC leaders for sustaining the party as a viable platform, said his focus remained on fostering peace and development across party lines.

He said: “What I am seeing today is that history is repeating itself, where Taraba will be one. Every one of us here has worked, both in PDP and in APC, and my prayer has always been for unity, peace, and progress.”

The governor also thanked God for giving him the privilege to lead the state and promised fairness to all, irrespective of political affiliation.

He said: “Yes! A rumour is indeed circulating, and I’m also hearing that rumour. Sometimes, when a rumour keeps moving like that, it makes somebody think that it is something good. I am also hearing that rumour, and I am working on it to see that it becomes a reality.

“So, by the grace of God, in a few days to come after next week, you will hear from me. Let’s continue to pray. I want to assure everyone here, whether you are from APC, PDP, or any other party, that we are committed to doing justice.

“Let’s forgive one another. Let us think about how we can move this state forward. Once I see unity and cooperation from all of us, trust me, I will give you what you deserve.”

Dr. Mustapha Salihu, APC’s North East National Vice Chairman, commended the governor’s gesture, describing the meeting as a step toward bridging political divides in the state.

He said that if Governor Kefas’ defection materialises, Taraba would benefit more from federal allocations and projects, noting that the governor had shown genuine concern for the state’s development.

Deputy National Women Leader, Hajia Zainab Ibrahim, also expressed optimism that Taraba would no longer be left behind in national development, saying the state “would no longer be an orphan” once fully aligned with the ruling party.

Taraba APC Chairman, Barrister Ibrahim El-Sudi, urged the governor to adopt an inclusive approach if he eventually joins the party, assuring that members remained steadfast and committed to the APC’s ideals for over a decade.

He said it would gladden the hearts of party loyalists to see Taraba emerge united and without political divisions.