Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has refuted allegations that financial inducement influenced his decision to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Kefas addressed journalists at the State House on Wednesday following his first official meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Aso Rock Villa since formally joining the ruling party.
The New Daily Prime reported Kefas defected to the APC in January 2026.
He maintained that his defection was guided by what he described as the best interests of Taraba State and not by monetary considerations.
“My decision was based on what is best for Taraba State and its future. Nobody gave me money to defect to the APC,” he said.
The governor characterised the move as “a carefully considered step to improve cooperation and development outcomes,” stressing that alignment with the federal government would enhance progress in the state.
Looking ahead to the 2027 elections, Kefas expressed strong confidence in his political standing, declaring that he would secure overwhelming support for President Tinubu in Taraba.
“We have done all our mapping, our planning, and I’m on the ground, and I have the people. The people have me, and I’ve always told them I have no business being in government than for them.
“So I have already won the mandate of the local, and I don’t think delivering Mr President and myself will be a difficult job. Taraba is for him, and he’s going to get nothing less than 100 per cent,” he said.
He attributed his optimism to grassroots initiatives and policies implemented by his administration, which he said have strengthened public confidence.
On his meeting with the president, Kefas explained that discussions centred on security, agriculture, and social welfare in Taraba State.
“This is not the first time meeting with Mr President. But since my movement to the ruling party, I’ve not seen Mr President.
“So I decided to come and see him and discuss some strategic issues concerning security, concerning the welfare of the people of Taraba State, and also support for Nigeria.”
He described the engagement as fruitful, expressing hope that it would deepen cooperation between Taraba and the federal government.
The governor also urged residents to embrace peace and unity, noting that the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim Ramadan period coincide this year — a moment he said should inspire prayers and renewed commitment to national development.
Kefas, elected in 2023 on the PDP platform, had initially scheduled his defection for November 19, 2025, before postponing it. The move was eventually finalised on January 31, 2026.
