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In a striking turn of events, members of the Taraba State House of Assembly have officially crossed over to the All Progressives Congress (APC), a development that precedes Governor Agbu Kefas’s planned public defection scheduled for Wednesday.
The move by the legislative arm marks an abrupt reconfiguration of political forces within the state. Sources familiar with the matter say the switch was completed quietly in recent days and will be formally acknowledged ahead of the governor’s ceremony. While exact figures were not disclosed, the signal could hardly be clearer: the APC has gained immediate, tangible strength in Taraba.
What Governor Kefas Says
Governor Kefas has described his anticipated defection as a choice made in the best interest of Taraba residents. He stressed that the decision is intended to create new avenues for cooperation with the federal government and to fast-track development projects that he believes will benefit the state.
“This is about the future of our people,” the governor said as final preparations were made for the event at Jolly Nyame Stadium. “I will explain the reasons and the roadmap when I address citizens on Wednesday.”
Responses and Reactions
APC state officials welcomed the defections, calling them both timely and encouraging. Party leaders framed the shift as a long-anticipated realignment that follows months of outreach and internal discussion. For the APC, the development increases the party’s leverage ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
Meanwhile, PDP sympathizers and independent observers expressed concern that the defections could erode the state’s traditional political balance, while critics warned of potential instability as loyalties realign. Legal experts note that while defections are permitted under Nigerian law, they often trigger contentious political and legal exchanges.
Why This Matters
The implications of a governor moving to the ruling party are broad. Supporters argue that political alignment can lead to better cooperation with federal agencies and quicker access to national projects and funding. Opponents worry it undermines opposition checks and could centralize power in ways that reduce accountability.
Practically speaking, the timing of the assembly’s decision makes the governor’s upcoming move more than symbolic: it consolidates legislative backing and alters the balance of power in the state capital. Political analysts say this may influence candidate selection, resource distribution, and campaign dynamics as parties prepare for the 2027 elections.
Quick Timeline
- Late October–Early November: Behind-the-scenes negotiations intensify.
- Mid-November: Majority of the state assembly reportedly decamp to APC.
- Wednesday (scheduled): Governor Kefas to make a public announcement and formalize his switch.
What to Watch Next
Observers will be monitoring the governor’s address for specifics on any conditions attached to the move, appointments that may follow, and whether the defection sparks legal challenges or counter-defections. The national party’s response and how federal agencies react whether with immediate support or with cautious distance will also be key indicators of the shift's practical impact.