Tension, anticipation as Taraba braces for Governor Kefas’ expected defection to APC

Jalingo, the usually calm Taraba State capital, has erupted with unusual political activity as convoys and chartered flights ferry some of the state’s most influential political figures into the city ahead of what many describe as a defining moment in Taraba’s political history.

The heightened movement follows strong indications that Governor Agbu Kefas may be on the verge of defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the All Progressives Congress, APC — a move political watchers say could trigger one of the most consequential realignments in the state in recent years.

Across hotels, party secretariats and private residences in Jalingo, groups of strategists, loyalists and power brokers were seen holding discreet meetings, analysing what Kefas’ anticipated defection could mean for Taraba’s political trajectory.

Among those who arrived in the state capital on Saturday were the Taraba APC Chairman, Tukur Ibrahim El-Sudi; Senators Haruna Manu and Shaibu Lau; former House of Representatives member, Danladi Baido; and serving lawmakers, including Zaku Alhassan and Mark Bako Useni.

Labour leader Bala Bobboi Kaigama and influential community figures such as Ali Sani Kona, Alhaji Abubakar Joda and Musa Muwalid have also stormed the state, further heightening expectations.

Their presence, analysts say, underscores the weight of the unfolding development. For many stakeholders, the anticipated reception of Governor Kefas into the APC represents more than a routine party switch — it signals a political shift capable of reshaping Taraba’s balance of power.

Across the city, conversations revolved around “a new dawn” and “a broader political coalition,” with some describing the moment as an opportunity to consolidate development efforts under a more unified political arrangement.

“This is not just about one man joining a new party,” a senior strategist told DAILY POST off-record. “It is about Taraba opening a new chapter — one built on unity, strength and sustainable political development.”

Former Deputy Governor and APC chieftain, Senator Sani Abubakar Danladi, also described the movement as a strategic recalibration aimed at strengthening Taraba’s positioning at the national level.

As preparations intensify for what is expected to be a grand reception for Governor Kefas, Jalingo remains on edge. With each new arrival and series of closed-door meetings, the countdown to one of Taraba State’s most defining political moments continues to gather momentum.