A coalition of All Progressives Congress (APC) stakeholders in Taraba State has voiced strong criticism against Governor Agbu Kefas, alleging that his administration has failed to meet the expectations of the people over the past three years. The group, which also urged prominent politician David Sabo Kente to throw his hat into the ring for the 2027 governorship election, expressed disappointment with the current state of affairs.
In a statement jointly issued by the coalition and the Chief David Sabo Kente Political Organisation, former APC State Secretary Godwin Villannah, who signed the document, stated that the governor’s performance has been lackluster. The stakeholders claimed that the administration has not delivered on its promises of democratic dividends and accelerated development, despite the substantial resources available to the state.
The statement further revealed that Kente played a pivotal role in Kefas’s electoral victory during the last election cycle. According to the group, Kente mobilized support across all 16 local government areas of Taraba in favor of Kefas, even though the latter was then a member of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This move was driven by dissatisfaction with the APC candidate at the time.
Instead of witnessing tangible development, the coalition lamented that the state has been subjected to failed promises. They pointed to the Ibbi-Nwonyo road project as inadequate and highlighted unfulfilled pledges such as the proposed Wukari flyover, township road projects, and an international stadium. The stakeholders also noted that road conditions in the state capital, Jalingo, have not improved as promised.
The group accused the governor of marginalizing long-standing APC members since his defection to the party. They alleged that party affairs are being managed in a way that excludes key contributors to the party’s growth, while most political appointments have gone to individuals who crossed over with the governor from the PDP. This, they argued, has created an imbalance that undermines the loyalty of existing APC members.
Additionally, the stakeholders questioned the effectiveness of the governor’s foreign trips, claiming that promised investments have not materialized. They expressed concerns about the party’s readiness for the 2027 elections and called for transparent and inclusive primaries that would offer a level playing field for all aspirants.
The coalition maintained that David Sabo Kente possesses the experience, broad acceptability, and leadership qualities needed to secure victory for the APC and reposition the state for meaningful development. They urged Kente to heed the growing calls from supporters to enter the race, describing his candidacy as essential to rescue Taraba from what they termed misgovernance and underdevelopment.
This development signals increasing political tension within the APC in Taraba as the party gears up for the 2027 governorship election, with various factions jostling for control and influence.