I didn’t collect money to defect to APC, says Taraba gov
Taraba Governor Denies Allegations of Financial Inducement for Party Defection
By Johnbosco Agbakwuru
ABUJA — Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas refuted claims on Wednesday that governors who transitioned from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) did so for financial incentives.
Speaking to reporters after a private meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Kefas described his move to the APC as driven by conviction and strategic interests for the development of Taraba State, not by monetary gain.
“I did not receive any money to defect to the APC,” he stated, calling such allegations unfounded political rumors. Kefas emphasized that his decision was rooted in genuine intent and noted his satisfaction with the opportunities the APC offers for the state’s future.
The governor expressed confidence in delivering Taraba State to President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, attributing potential success to improvements in security and governance. “Delivering Taraba will not be difficult because our policies are already impacting the grassroots,” he added.
In addressing speculation about his relationship with former Defence Minister General Theophilus Danjuma, Kefas dismissed any notion of a rift. He characterized Danjuma as a father figure and reaffirmed their strong bond. “I don’t have any problem with TY Danjuma; he is my father. There has never been any misunderstanding between us,” Kefas asserted, mentioning that he had informed Danjuma about his party switch and received his blessing.
During his meeting with President Tinubu, the governor discussed critical issues including security, agriculture, and the welfare of Taraba residents, aiming to enhance cooperation between the state and federal government. He deemed the conversation “very meaningful,” marking it as his first official interaction with the President since joining the APC.
Kefas acknowledged political resistance following his defection but insisted he remains connected to the people and that his governance has built public trust. On security, he noted a significant reduction in violence since he took office, allowing residents greater freedom.
In terms of agriculture, he highlighted advances such as modern mechanized farming introduced through tractor imports, which he claimed have increased productivity. Plans are underway to establish local processing facilities to enhance value addition and create jobs.
Additionally, the governor recognized the near overlap of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan as a time for unity and renewed commitment to national peace.
Kefas officially defected from the PDP to the APC between late 2025 and early 2026, a decision that has elicited varied reactions within Taraba’s political landscape. While many political figures and local officials have welcomed his shift as beneficial for development, critics see it as politically motivated.
The recent wave of defections among state assembly members, council chairmen, and party executives signals a transformative shift in Taraba’s political framework, moving away from the PDP’s long-standing dominance as the 2027 elections approach.
