Governor Agbu Kefas to Resign from PDP and Join APC
According to recent developments, the governor of Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, is expected to formally resign from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the All Progressives Congress (APC) on November 19. This information was shared with Nigerian Tribune by a member of the ruling party’s National Working Committee.
The governor is set to be welcomed in Jalingo by the national chairman of the APC, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. The arrangements for this trip were discussed during a meeting of the APC National Working Committee held at the party’s national secretariat on Wednesday.
Further investigations have shown that Governor Kefas hinted at his intention to leave the PDP during a meeting with chieftains of both the APC and PDP at the Banquet Hall in TY Danjuma House, Jalingo. He stated:
“Yes! A rumour is indeed circulating, and I’m also hearing that rumour. Sometimes, when a rumour keeps moving like that, it makes somebody think that it is something good. I am also hearing that rumour, and I am working on it to see that it becomes a reality.
“So, by the grace of God, in a few days to come after next week, you will hear from me. Let’s continue to pray. I want to assure everyone here, whether you are from APC, PDP, or any other party, that we are committed to doing justice.
“Let’s forgive one another. Let us think about how we can move this state forward.”
APC Expanding Its Influence
In addition to Governor Kefas, the APC has reportedly begun discussions with the governor of Adamawa State, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri. An APC source confirmed that the defection of Governor Fintiri is already a settled matter, with Adamawa being the next target after Taraba.
This shift in political allegiance highlights the ongoing power dynamics in the North East region of Nigeria. According to recent checks, the APC won three states in the governorship elections in the North East, while the PDP also secured three seats. Currently, the APC controls Borno, Gombe, and Yobe States, whereas the PDP holds Bauchi, Taraba, and Adamawa.
The North East region is also significant as it is the home base of Atiku Abubakar, the former vice president and presidential aspirant of the African Democratic Congress (ADC). In the last presidential election, the PDP, which nominated Atiku Abubakar, won five states in the region, while the APC claimed victory in Borno, the home state of Tinubu’s running mate and incumbent Vice President, Kashim Shettima.
In Borno state, the PDP received 190,921 votes compared to the APC’s 252,282 votes.
Political Landscape in the North East
The shifting political landscape in the North East reflects the growing influence of the APC in the region. With the defection of key governors, the party is positioning itself to gain more ground against the PDP. This development could have significant implications for future elections and the balance of power in the region.
As the political scene continues to evolve, the actions of leaders like Governor Kefas and the strategic moves of the APC will play a crucial role in shaping the future of governance in the North East.
Key Points of Interest
- The expected resignation of Governor Agbu Kefas from the PDP and his potential joining of the APC.
- The involvement of the APC’s National Working Committee in planning the governor’s transition.
- The hints given by Governor Kefas about his plans during a meeting with party chieftains.
- The expansion of the APC’s influence through discussions with other governors, including Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri.
- The current control of states in the North East by both the APC and PDP.
- The historical significance of the North East region in Nigerian politics, particularly with regard to Atiku Abubakar.
- The results of the last presidential election in Borno state, highlighting the close competition between the PDP and APC.