The Taraba State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) has firmly denied speculations suggesting that Governor Dr Agbu Kefas is planning to defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
In an official statement released on Thursday, the Taraba State PDP Chairman, Alhaji Abubakar Bawa, described the rumours as baseless, reaffirming that the state remains a bastion of PDP support in Northern Nigeria.
“Taraba State is the stronghold of the PDP in Northern Nigeria,” Bawa stated. “While other states in the region have experimented with opposition parties, Taraba has consistently remained loyal to the PDP.”
Bawa attributed the state’s unwavering support to the party’s enduring principles and the consistent performance of its leaders since the advent of democracy in 1999.
He emphasised that the PDP’s commitment to its ideals continues to resonate with the people of Taraba, who have repeatedly entrusted the party with governance.
Highlighting Governor Kefas’ leadership, Bawa described his tenure as a significant milestone in the party’s history.
He noted that Kefas’ journey from former state PDP chairman to governor reflects the party’s internal strength and its capacity to nurture and elevate credible leaders.
Bawa further commended Governor Kefas for his people-centred governance, citing landmark initiatives such as the prompt implementation of the ₦30,000 minimum wage, recently increased to ₦70,000, as well as efforts to clear a 10-month salary backlog owed to staff at the PDP state secretariat.
“These actions demonstrate his unwavering commitment to party ideals and the welfare of Tarabans,” Bawa said.
The chairman also praised the governor’s bold education reforms, which he noted have been widely applauded and have further cemented the PDP’s popularity in the state.
Concluding his remarks, Bawa dismissed the defection speculations as mere political distractions, affirming Taraba’s steadfast loyalty to the PDP.
“As the only state in Northern Nigeria that has never tested opposition, Taraba remains a PDP stronghold.
“The party’s effective governance and deep-rooted connection with the people will continue to guide our success,” he declared.
