In a significant political development, Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State has officially registered as a member of the All Progressives Congress (APC), marking a major realignment in the state’s political landscape. The move comes amid increasing defections from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling party across several states, and it is expected to have a substantial impact on Taraba politics ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The formal registration ceremony took place at the Governor’s Office in Jalingo, the state capital. At the event, the APC chairman of the governor’s ward presented Kefas with his membership card, officially inducting him into the ruling party. The ceremony was attended by top APC officials, supporters, and political stakeholders, signaling broad local support for the governor’s move.
Governor Kefas had initially announced plans to defect to the APC on November 19, 2025, but postponed the event following the abduction of students in Kebbi State, citing the need to maintain focus on security and humanitarian concerns. With the situation addressed, the governor has now rescheduled his official defection for January 2026, ensuring a smooth transition and allowing time for political realignments within the state.
Political analysts say Governor Kefas’ defection could significantly alter the balance of power in Taraba, a state historically dominated by the PDP. His move is expected to strengthen the APC’s position, particularly as the party seeks to consolidate its influence in the North-East ahead of the next election cycle. Supporters believe Kefas’ entry into the APC will bring new momentum to the party’s agenda in the state, potentially attracting other lawmakers and local leaders to follow suit.
Observers note that this defection reflects broader trends in Nigerian politics, where strategic alignments with the ruling party are often viewed as a pathway to enhanced governance support, access to federal resources, and political stability at the state level. While some critics argue that such moves are politically opportunistic, supporters contend that the defection will allow Governor Kefas to better deliver development projects and initiatives for Taraba residents under the APC platform.
Governor Kefas’ decision underscores the fluid nature of political affiliations in Nigeria and sets the stage for heightened political activity in Taraba State in the coming months. The January 2026 formalization of his defection is likely to attract nationwide attention as politicians and citizens closely monitor the implications for the state’s political future.
Taraba Governor Agbu Kefas Officially Joins APC, Signaling Major Political Shift
