Shettima Eyes Bauchi, Adamawa as Taraba Governor Defects

The North-East political map underwent a major realignment this weekend as Vice President Kashim Shettima led a high-powered delegation to Jalingo to formally welcome Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas into the All Progressives Congress (APC). The defection, which follows months of speculation, has sent ripples through the opposition, leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with a dwindling footprint in the region.

Speaking at a grand reception in the state capital on Saturday, Shettima described Kefas’ transition from the PDP as “personally touching.” He noted that the move was not merely a political acquisition but a significant step toward unifying the North-East under the banner of the ruling party. The Vice President’s presence served as a clear signal of the importance the presidency attaches to Taraba’s strategic role in national food and energy security.

The event, however, was more than just a welcome party; it was a recruitment drive. With Taraba now in the APC fold, Shettima turned his sights toward the remaining PDP strongholds in the zone. He openly challenged the governors of Adamawa and Bauchi states to “reconsider their positions,” suggesting that the path to accelerated development lies in aligning with the federal government’s “Renewed Hope” agenda.

Governor Kefas, who has now been declared the leader of the APC in Taraba, defended his decision as a move driven by purpose rather than power. He emphasized that the shift was essential to bring the state into the “center” of national policy, arguing that isolation from the ruling party at the federal level often impedes state-level progress. He pledged that his administration would remain focused on grassroots projects, particularly in infrastructure and education.

The APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, echoed these sentiments, characterizing the defection as a “masterstroke.” He urged party members to embrace the new leadership and prepare for a wave of new registrations. Yilwatda, who recently took the party’s helm, has been aggressive in his efforts to expand the APC’s control, frequently describing the PDP as a “sinking ship.”

For the PDP, the loss of Taraba is a heavy blow. The state has long been a bastion for the opposition, and Kefas’ departure, accompanied by several state and federal legislators, marks a significant erosion of the party’s influence. The move mirrors a broader national trend where state executives seek federal alignment to secure budgetary support and developmental interventions.

The Vice President’s visit to Jalingo also carried a message of inclusivity. He assured the people of Taraba that their diverse ethnic and religious backgrounds would be respected under the APC umbrella. He described the party as a “meeting point” where regional differences are channeled toward a shared national goal.

As the 2027 general elections begin to loom on the political horizon, the APC’s expansionist strategy appears to be gaining momentum. By targeting Bauchi and Adamawa, the ruling party is clearly aiming for a total sweep of the North-East. Whether the governors of those states will heed Shettima’s call remains to be seen, but the pressure is undeniably mounting.

The reception concluded with the formal handing over of the APC flag to Governor Kefas, a symbolic gesture that officially marks the start of a new political era in Taraba. For now, the “progressive movement” celebrated in Jalingo is looking north, waiting to see if the next domino will fall in Bauchi or Yola.