Reported By Mary Udezue | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
Jalingo, Taraba State — Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has formally resigned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and officially joined the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a significant shift in the state’s political alignment. The move, which took place on Sunday, was presented as a strategic decision aimed at enhancing governance and consolidating development initiatives in the state.
Dr. Kefas, who was elected governor in 2023 under the PDP platform, explained that the defection was in the overall interest of Taraba State and its residents. He emphasized that aligning with the ruling party would facilitate closer cooperation with the federal government, enabling smoother implementation of developmental projects, improved access to resources, and stronger policy coordination.
The formal registration process, conducted at the Government House in Jalingo, was attended by key APC leaders, state officials, and party supporters. Kefas’ defection has effectively ended PDP’s control in Taraba, a state that has historically been a PDP stronghold since Nigeria’s return to democracy in 1999. Political analysts suggest that the move could influence the broader political landscape in the northeast, potentially reshaping alliances and impacting upcoming electoral contests.
Prior to the official defection, plans for the ceremony had been postponed due to a national security crisis in another part of the country, demonstrating a sensitivity to public sentiment and the broader national context. Following the rescheduling, Kefas proceeded with the formalities, signaling a decisive realignment in his political strategy.
Supporters of the governor welcomed the defection, noting that affiliation with the ruling party could enhance Taraba’s ability to attract federal support for infrastructure, security, education, and economic development. They argue that the move strengthens the state’s political relevance and positions it for greater investment and strategic collaborations with the federal government.
Critics within the PDP, however, expressed disappointment, describing the defection as a setback to opposition presence in the state. Some party members warned that such moves could undermine internal democracy and weaken alternative voices, though they acknowledged the fluidity of political alliances in Nigeria’s evolving political environment.
Observers highlight that Governor Kefas’ defection reflects a wider trend among Nigerian governors who realign with the party in power at the federal level to secure developmental leverage and political influence. Analysts note that such shifts are often motivated by both governance considerations and strategic electoral calculations.
Governor Kefas assured Tarabans that his commitment to inclusive governance remains unchanged. He called on residents, political actors, and party members to embrace unity and collaboration, stressing that the defection was intended to optimize the state’s developmental trajectory rather than serve personal ambition.
As Taraba transitions under APC leadership, attention now turns to how this political realignment will impact governance outcomes, federal collaboration, and the state’s role in national politics. For now, Dr. Agbu Kefas’ move represents a pivotal moment in Taraba State’s political history, signaling both continuity in leadership and a new phase of party affiliation that carries implications for policy, investment, and regional political dynamics.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments