By Samuel Uhuru, Jalingo
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, Chief David Sabo Kente, has alleged that the House of Representatives primary election scheduled for Saturday did not take place, contrary to reports and video clips circulating on social media suggesting otherwise.
Speaking with journalists on Sunday in Jalingo, Kente claimed that election materials were only distributed late on Saturday night, making the conduct of any credible primary impossible.
He further stated that he was contacted early Sunday morning by officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), who informed him that the distribution of materials was to commence at Fastrack Hotel, raising further doubts about the authenticity of the purported exercise.
According to him, what was presented online as evidence of the primaries was misleading, insisting that no election was conducted in any part of the state.
“I just want to clarify a few things. There was no election in Taraba yesterday. The materials arrived late and were distributed through the night. At the same time, people are circulating videos suggesting elections were held, but that is not correct,” he said.
Kente also addressed speculations about political inducement and alleged pressure to step down, dismissing such claims.
“I am not aware of any financial inducement or offer. Nobody has approached me with money. I don’t go into politics for money, and I have never collected money to step down for anyone,” he said.
He also clarified reports suggesting a rift with Governor Agbu Kefas, noting that the governor had visited him, but the meeting was not unusual and centered on broader party issues, including concerns about the sealing of the APC secretariat.
Kente maintained that discussions were held between both men, but insisted that no agreement was reached for him to withdraw from the governorship race.
He added that he had consulted widely with his supporters, many of whom, according to him, insisted that he should remain in the contest.
On the primaries controversy, Kente alleged that results were being pre-written, and questioned the credibility of the process, claiming that some party officials were allegedly involved in manipulating outcomes.
He further warned that unresolved internal issues, including disputes over local government party structures in Ussa, Takum, and Donga, could destabilize the party if not properly addressed.
“If the governor and party leadership do the right thing, the party will avoid unnecessary litigations that could harm it,” he warned.
Kente concluded by insisting that if a fair primary is conducted, he is confident of victory within hours.
