Taraba APC Pushes Back Gov Kefas’ High-Profile Defection Ceremony to January 2026

By Emmanuel Kwada 

The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State has rescheduled the official reception of Governor Agbu Kefas to January 2026, citing a packed December calendar and the need for a more fitting welcome after his earlier postponement.

The announcement, made amid internal party housekeeping, underscores the governor’s impending shift from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a move that could reshape the state’s political landscape ahead of future polls.

State APC Chairman Ibrahim Tukur dropped the update during a press conference in Jalingo on Sunday, confirming Kefas already quietly admitted at the ward level, would make his formal entry next month.

The original November 19 date was shelved indefinitely in solidarity with the kidnapping of over 200 students in Kebbi State, a crisis Kefas highlighted as demanding national focus over political fanfare.

“December is already jam-packed with activities. We don’t want to drag people across the state when families are preparing for Christmas and the New Year,” Tukur explained, adding that a precise January date would follow soon.

Beyond the defection delay, Tukur used the platform to clamp down on internal discord. The party suspended several ward executives for breaching the APC constitution, urging aggrieved members to pursue internal dispute resolution before litigation.

In a notable reversal, the suspension of Taraba State House of Assembly member Abel Peter (Mbamga Constituency) slapped earlier for alleged anti-party conduct was lifted, signaling a push for unity.

Tukur didn’t hold back on PDP rivalries, scoffing at former Vice President Atiku Abubakar’s recent vow to reclaim Taraba. “It’s a daydream and a joke taken too far,” he retorted.

“APC has already taken over the Taraba Government House and is not willing to back down.” The barbs come as Kefas, elected under PDP in 2023, has faced mounting tensions with party elders, including Atiku, fueling defection whispers since local polls.