By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
A Chieftain and Governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, Chief David Sabo Kente, has announce his stepping aside from the race.
He disclose this while briefing Journalists in Jalingo.
“As you are all aware, my decision to join the APC gubernatorial race was anchored on the pressure from the people of Taraba State who felt the present administration has not lived up to their expectations and they needed someone to step in.
“After much reluctance, I was persuaded to join the race with an unflinching determination to make a difference. Our tested popularity and acceptability put us in a position of strength over all other opponents.
According to him, he announced his decision after consultation with various stakeholders across the state and beyond.
“As you are also aware, His Excellency, Governor Agbu Kefas, my younger brother, visited me here shortly after my arrival in Jalingo and requested me to allow him to complete his remaining four years.
“I told him to give me time and allow me to consult with my supporters and stakeholders.
He said that he have come under immense pressure lately from leaders across religious, political, and ethnic divides both within and outside the State who clamour for political stability of the state and party.
“I have also observed with dismay the ongoing primaries of our dear party in the State and have come to the conclusion that nothing good can possibly come out of it.
“Consequently, after due consultation with all relevant stakeholders especially my political supporters who sacrificed their resources to purchase the Expression of interest and Nomination forms for me, I want to announce to you of my decision to step aside from the race – he said.
Chief Kente emphasise that no one has “settled” him in any form.
“My decision is strictly in the interest of political stability, peace, and unity of our party and the entire Taraba State.
“This is not for any personal gain. Quite to the contrary, I have already invested hugely in this project, but I must put the people first, thus my decision to step aside from the race – he added.
He use the opportunity to call on his teeming supporters to stay calm, remain loyal to our great party and work for the success of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu who has good intentions for the State and the Country at large.