Rumoured defection to APC: Aide backs Taraba’s gov, says it’s “masterstroke political wisdom”

The Special Adviser to the Taraba State Governor on Legal Matters, Sani Marke, has thrown his weight behind the rumoured plan by Governor Agbu Kefas to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party to the ruling All Progressives Congress, describing the move as a “masterstroke of political wisdom” that would accelerate development and stability in the state.

In a statement issued in Jalingo on Tuesday, Marke praised the governor for what he called a bold and visionary step, saying it reflected genuine statesmanship and a pragmatic effort to align Taraba with the Federal Government’s development agenda.

“Governor Agbu Kefas has once again proven that he is a true patriot who puts the interest of Taraba first. His decision to align with the centre is not about political convenience but about expanding the frontiers of opportunity for our people,” Marke said.

The aide added that such alignment would ensure Taraba was not left behind in national development, noting that the governor’s reported decision to join the APC was rooted in foresight and commitment to inclusive governance.

Marke also commended the leadership of the APC in the North-East and Taraba State, including Senator David Jimkuta, Uba Ahmadu, Senator Sani Danladi, Jerry Manwe, Ibrahim El-Sudi, and e Mustapha Salisu, for their openness and readiness to welcome the Governor into the party’s fold.

He described the APC’s reception as “a show of unity and collective responsibility” that underscored the governor’s reputation as a bridge-builder and peace advocate.

“The solidarity shown by the APC family in Taraba and the North-East is commendable. It sends a strong message of unity and shared purpose toward moving our dear state forward,” he added.

Calling on Tarabans to rally behind Kefas, the Special Adviser urged residents to look beyond party lines and support the governor’s vision for development and transformation.

“This is the time for all of us to unite behind a common vision of prosperity and political harmony. The Governor has laid the foundation for a new Taraba built on inclusion and partnership,” he said.

Reaffirming his loyalty to Kefas, Marke pledged to mobilise broad-based political support for the Governor ahead of the 2027 general elections.

He described the governor’s rumoured move to the APC as “the dawn of a new era of progress and purposeful leadership” for Taraba State.

Kefas’ rumoured planned defection comes a week after the PDP lost two of its governors, Duoye Diri of Bayelsa State and Peter Mbah of Enugu, who has since joined the APC.

If Kefas defects, the number of states under PDP control will further reduce from the current eight to seven, consolidating the ruling APC’s chances ahead of the 2027 general election and President Bola Tinubu’s re-election bid.

Credit – Punch

Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas