By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
Saturday, 31st January 2026, would be a historic day in Taraba state as Nigeria’s Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima; Senate President, Godswill Akpabio; Progressive Governors; members of the National Assembly; and other dignitaries to witness the decamping ceremony of Governor Agbu Kefas.
This signifies the formal defection of Governor Kefas from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) to join the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Senate President Akpabio has confirmed his attendance in a video posted on social media.
In the video, Senator David Jimkuta (representing Taraba South) appeared alongside Akpabio, announcing that the Senate President will be in Jalingo to officially receive Governor Kefas as he defects from the PDP to the APC.
Governor Kefas had earlier switched allegiance two weeks ago during the launch of the APC e-registration exercise in Wukari, his hometown.
Explaining his decision, Kefas stated that he joined the APC to support the progressive agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
The Director of Publicity for the APC Taraba State chapter, Mr. Aeron Artimas, confirmed the visit of these dignitaries, adding that the event is not just for APC members in the state but also as a symbol of massive new membership across the sixteen local government areas of the state.
According to him, the state will witness a mass defection involving all councillors, local government council chairmen, members of the Taraba State House of Assembly, and members of the National Assembly, including senators and House of Representatives members from the state, to the All Progressive Congress (APC).
“Vice President Shettima, who hails from the North East, is expected at the event alongside the Senate President, Governors, and other distinguished guests.
“Their presence signifies a new era for Taraba’s development. As members of the ruling party, we anticipate steady progress in infrastructure and the economy – he said.
Our correspondent reports that Jolly Nyame Stadium venue of the occasion have been given a first look.
The ceremony was initially scheduled for last November but was postponed in honor of the families of schoolgirls abducted by unknown gunmen last year in Kebbi State.