Introduction to the Shift in Taraba State’s Political Alignments
In what could mark a major shift in Taraba State’s political alignments, leaders and stakeholders of the All Progressives Congress (APC) have expressed support for the defection of Governor Agbu Kefas from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The show of solidarity came at the weekend during a meeting held at the Jalingo residence of Danladi Baido, which brought together a broad coalition of APC leaders, including the party chairman, APC Youth Forum, Concerned Citizens, APC Like Minds, and party elders from across the state’s 16 local councils and two development zones.
The Meeting and Its Objectives
The gathering, as reported by The Guardian, was aimed at reaffirming loyalty and pledging support to Governor Kefas ahead of his expected entry into the ruling party. Participants described the move as “timely” and “strategic,” saying it would enhance Taraba’s development through increased federal presence, infrastructural growth, economic empowerment, and improved human capital.
Support from Key Stakeholders
Speaking at the meeting, A.A. Liman of the NNPP bloc underscored the importance of unity, declaring his full support for the governor’s anticipated defection. He noted that aligning Taraba with the APC-led Federal Government would accelerate the pace of development and open more empowerment opportunities for citizens. In his remarks, the host, Danladi Baido, applauded APC leaders in Taraba for believing in Governor Kefas’ “progressive vision.” He described the governor as a “true leader with a transformative agenda”, who governs without bias for party, religion, or ethnicity.
Expected Outcomes and Benefits
Elder statesmen and other stakeholders at the meeting also commended President Bola Tinubu for his administration’s interest in Taraba, noting recent high-profile appointments of indigenes. They expressed confidence that Kefas’ alignment with the APC would further strengthen the relationship between the state and federal governments, resulting in more infrastructural and economic advancements.
Finalizing the Defection Process
To finalise the entire process, state APC leaders will meet tomorrow, November 4, to seal arrangements for the much-anticipated defection. State Chairman of the APC, Ibrahim El-Sudi, confirmed the development in an interview with our correspondent over the weekend. He described the governor’s planned defection as “a divine breakthrough” for the party, which has long sought to capture power in Taraba State.
Preparations for the Grand Reception
According to him, preparations are ongoing for a grand reception in Jalingo to formally welcome the governor into the party. The event, he said, will be attended by President Bola Tinubu, members of the APC National Working Committee, and key stakeholders from across the Northeast region. El-Sudi disclosed that Governor Kefas had already held discussions with top APC leaders in Abuja, including the President and the national chairman, before deciding to defect.
Conclusion
The impending defection of Governor Agbu Kefas from the PDP to the APC marks a significant shift in Taraba State’s political landscape. With the support of APC leaders and stakeholders, this move is expected to bring about increased federal presence, infrastructural growth, and economic empowerment to the state. As the state APC leaders finalize the arrangements for the governor’s defection, the people of Taraba await the potential benefits of this new political alignment.
FAQs
- Q: Who is defecting from the PDP to the APC?
A: Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State. - Q: Why are APC leaders supporting Governor Kefas’ defection?
A: They believe it will enhance Taraba’s development through increased federal presence, infrastructural growth, economic empowerment, and improved human capital. - Q: When will the state APC leaders finalize the defection process?
A: They are scheduled to meet on November 4 to seal the arrangements. - Q: Who will attend the grand reception to welcome Governor Kefas into the APC?
A: President Bola Tinubu, members of the APC National Working Committee, and key stakeholders from across the Northeast region.
