Governor Agbu Kefas

Taraba Governor Agbu Kefas to Join APC Ahead of 2027 Elections

Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State is reportedly on the verge of defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) as the 2027 general elections approach. Sources close to the APC have indicated that this political transition is scheduled for November 19, barring any unforeseen developments.

APC Prepares to Welcome Governor Kefas in Jalingo

Insiders within the APC National Working Committee have confirmed that arrangements are in place to formally receive Governor Kefas in Jalingo. The party’s national chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, is expected to spearhead the delegation that will officially usher the governor into the ruling party’s fold.

During a recent leadership meeting at the APC national secretariat in Abuja, the governor’s impending defection was a key agenda item. An APC official revealed, “All preparations have been finalized for Governor Kefas’s integration into the APC.”

Governor Kefas Hints at Defection During Stakeholders Meeting

Earlier this week, Governor Kefas subtly acknowledged the swirling rumors about his party switch while addressing a gathering of APC and PDP stakeholders at the Banquet Hall of TY Danjuma House in Jalingo. He remarked:

“Yes! I am aware of the rumors circulating, and I hear them too. When such rumors persist, it often signals something positive. I am actively working to turn this into reality. By the grace of God, in the days following next week, you will hear directly from me. Let us continue to pray. I want to assure everyone here-whether you belong to APC, PDP, or any other party-that our focus remains on justice and progress. Let us forgive past grievances and unite to advance our state.”

This statement has intensified speculation within Taraba’s political circles, with many of his supporters already gravitating towards the APC in anticipation of his formal announcement.

Broader Defection Strategy in the North-East

Further disclosures from APC insiders reveal ongoing negotiations with Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State, who is reportedly considering a similar defection. “Governor Fintiri’s move to APC is imminent. After Taraba, Adamawa will follow,” the source confirmed.

This wave of defections appears to be part of a calculated APC effort to strengthen its foothold in Nigeria’s North-East geopolitical zone, a region currently split between the APC and PDP. Presently, the APC governs Borno, Gombe, and Yobe States, while the PDP controls Bauchi, Taraba, and Adamawa.

Political Dynamics in the North-East and Implications for 2027

The North-East holds significant political weight, being the home region of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, the PDP’s 2023 presidential candidate. In the last election cycle, the PDP secured victories in five North-East states, whereas the APC won Borno State, the home of Vice President Kashim Shettima.

With Governor Kefas’s anticipated defection, the political balance in Taraba-and potentially the wider North-East-could shift dramatically, influencing party dominance ahead of the 2027 elections.

Looking Ahead: The Countdown to November 19

As the date approaches, political observers and stakeholders are closely monitoring developments in Jalingo. Governor Kefas’s official move to the APC could mark a pivotal moment in the region’s political landscape, signaling a possible realignment of power that may reverberate across Nigeria’s broader political spectrum.