Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba State is reportedly preparing to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC) ahead of the 2027 elections.
Barring any last-minute changes, the defection is expected to happen on November 19, POLITICS NIGERIA reports.
According to reliable sources within the APC National Working Committee, plans have been finalized to officially receive the governor in Jalingo.
The party’s national chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, is expected to lead the team that will welcome him into the ruling party.
The source confirmed that Governor Kefas’ defection was discussed at the APC leadership meeting held on Wednesday at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja.
“Everything is already set for the Taraba governor’s arrival into the APC fold,” the insider hinted.
Governor Kefas himself had dropped a strong hint earlier this week while addressing APC and PDP stakeholders at the Banquet Hall of TY Danjuma House in Jalingo.
Speaking during the meeting, he said:
“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.”
His statement has since fueled widespread speculation across Taraba’s political circle, with many of his supporters already aligning themselves with the APC in anticipation of his formal announcement.
Meanwhile, the APC source also disclosed that the party is in advanced talks with the Adamawa State governor, Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, who may soon follow the same path.
“The defection of Governor Fintiri is already a settled matter. After Taraba, Adamawa is next,” the insider stated.
However, is believed the move is part of a broader APC strategy to consolidate power in the North-East, a region that remains politically divided between the ruling party and the PDP.
Currently, the APC controls Borno, Gombe, and Yobe States, while the PDP holds Bauchi, Taraba, and Adamawa.
It is also the home region of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who contested the 2023 presidential election under the PDP.
In that election, the PDP secured victories in five North-East states, while the APC triumphed in Borno — the home state of Vice President Kashim Shettima.
As the countdown to November 19 begins, all eyes are now on Jalingo, where the political landscape of Taraba State could shift significantly with Governor Kefas’ anticipated defection.
