*Denies “cash for defection” move to APC
Taraba Governor, Agbu Kefas, has dismissed speculations of a strained relationship with elder statesman and former Defence Minister, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd). He described the general as a father figure whose guidance and goodwill remain intact despite his present political realignment.
Kefas also explained that his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was neither controversial nor financially induced.
The governor who spoke with newsmen after meeting President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja on Wednesday, further explained that his recent visit to the retired general was personal and symbolic, aimed at appreciation and reaffirmation of their long-standing bond.
Kefas insisted that there has never been any misunderstanding between them, noting that their shared military background and years of association have continued to define their relationship.
“I don’t have any problem with TY Danjuma; he is my father. Since we started politics, nothing has ever come between us. People just speculate, but there is no issue at all,” Kefas stated, adding that Danjuma, though not a member of any political party, was duly informed before his move to the APC and gave his blessing. “Before I defected, I secured his approval. He assured me of his support whenever I need it.”
On the rumours making the rounds that financial incentives influenced his defection to the ruling party, Kefas vehemently denied receiving any money, describing such claims as unfounded political gossip.
“Nobody gave me money to defect to the APC,” he said, stressing that his decision was driven by conviction and strategic considerations for the development of Taraba State rather than pecuniary benefits.
He said delivering Taraba to Tinubu in 2027 waa already a done deal: “Delivering Taraba will not be difficult because our policies are already impacting the grassroots,” he said.
Kefas disclosed that his closed-door meeting with President Tinubu centred on security, agriculture and the welfare of Taraba residents, as well as strategies to strengthen collaboration between the state and the Federal Government.
He described the engagement as “very meaningful,” noting that it marked his first formal interaction with the President since joining the ruling party and would open the door for deeper intergovernmental cooperation.
The governor described the near alignment of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim Holy Month of Ramadan as symbolic, urging citizens to use the period for prayer, unity and renewed commitment to national peace and development.
Governor Kefas formally defected from the PDP to the APC between late 2025 and early 2026, a move that has continued to generate mixed reactions within Taraba’s political landscape.
