Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has said his recent defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC) is driven by purpose and the interest of the state, not by personal ambition or power.
Governor Kefas, who officially left the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) on Saturday, described his move as a mission to deliver sustainable development and inclusive governance to the people of Taraba.
He was formally received by Vice President Kashim Shettima and the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, in a ceremony that highlighted the party’s commitment to development-driven leadership.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Shettima described Kefas’ defection as a “moment of pride” for both the party and the nation.
He praised the governor for his inclusive leadership style and dedication to promoting unity across Taraba’s diverse ethnic and religious communities.
“The APC was conceived as a platform for Nigerians committed to development,” Shettima said. “Today, it is a thing of pride that Taraba has joined this fold. We welcome our brother home because, in truth, he has always been with us.”
Shettima also affirmed Kefas as the undisputed leader of the APC in Taraba, urging residents to support the governor’s development agenda.
For his part, APC National Chairman Yilwatda described the defection as timely and courageous, stressing that it aligns with the best interests of Taraba’s people. He added that Kefas’ alignment with the ruling party at the centre would position the state to fully benefit from federal policies, programmes, and investments under the Tinubu administration.
“The APC is the party at the centre, and in my Father’s house there are many mansions,” Yilwatda said. “There is room for every Nigerian willing to join the APC. In our party, all states and all people are equal, and Taraba is as important as every other APC-governed state.”
In his remarks, Governor Kefas thanked the APC leadership and the Federal Government, reiterating that his decision was in the best interest of the state.
“This is not about power, but purpose. We must align to deliver development,” Kefas said. “We will not dwell on the past. We will work together to redefine the future for ourselves, our children, and generations yet unborn. I will not abandon the mandate given to me; rather, I will strengthen it and ensure fairness to all.”
The governor also commended President Tinubu’s leadership, describing him as a results-driven leader, and pledged to make Taraba State open for development and investment.
