Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, on Saturday officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was formally received by Vice President Kashim Shettima at a ceremony in Jalingo.
Receiving the governor on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Shettima described the defection as a moment of pride for both the APC and the nation, commending Kefas for his inclusive leadership style and commitment to development.
The Vice President said the APC was founded as a broad-based platform for development-minded Nigerians, adding that the Taraba governor’s decision to join the party was timely and aligned with its core ideals.
“We believe nations endure when they acknowledge their strengths. Taraba State is an integral part of Nigeria, blessed with enormous potential for national growth,” Shettima said.
“The APC was built as a meeting point for people committed to development. Today, it is a source of pride that Taraba has joined this fold. We welcome our brother home because, in truth, he has always been with us.”
Shettima further praised Kefas for his appreciation of Taraba’s ethnic and religious diversity and his efforts to promote unity, urging residents to rally behind the governor to accelerate development.
“We are proud of Governor Agbu Kefas for his inclusivity and development drive. I urge the people of Taraba State to support him as he delivers on his mandate,” he said, describing Kefas as the undisputed leader of the APC in the state.
It will be recalled that in December 2025, plans were announced for Kefas to formally join the APC in January 2026, after he postponed an earlier defection scheduled for November 19, citing the kidnapping of students in Kebbi State.
Also speaking, APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, described the governor’s defection as a major boost for the party and Taraba State, noting that it would help unlock the state’s vast economic and developmental potential.
“Joining the APC is one of the best decisions for Taraba State. The state is richly endowed, and this alignment will position it for greater development,” Yilwada said, assuring party members of fairness and inclusiveness.
He urged Governor Kefas to unite all stakeholders, pledging equal rights and opportunities for both old and new members of the party.
In his remarks, Governor Kefas thanked the APC leadership and the Federal Government, saying his decision to join the party was taken in the best interest of Taraba State.
“We will not dwell on the past. We will work together to redefine the future we desire for ourselves, our children and generations yet unborn,” he said.
Kefas stressed that his defection was driven by service rather than personal ambition, describing it as a mission to deliver sustainable development.
“This is not about power, but purpose. We must align to deliver development. I will not abandon the mandate given to me; rather, I will strengthen it and ensure fairness for all,” the governor said.
He also praised President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a leader who understands governance and delivers results, while declaring Taraba State open for development and investment.
