Kefas Says He Secured Danjuma’s Blessings Before Joining APC

Taraba State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, has disclosed that he received the blessings of elder statesman and former Defence Minister, Gen. Theophilus Danjuma, before defecting from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking with State House correspondents after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Kefas dismissed claims that financial incentives influenced his move, describing reports of a “cash-for-defection” deal as baseless.

“Nobody gave me money to defect to the APC,” he stated, emphasizing that his decision was rooted in conviction and strategic considerations aimed at advancing the development of Taraba State.

The governor expressed optimism about his new political platform, saying it offers greater opportunities for collaboration with the Federal Government. “Delivering Taraba will not be difficult because our policies are already impacting the grassroots,” he added.

Addressing speculations of a strained relationship with Gen. Danjuma, Kefas insisted there was no disagreement between them.

“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,” he said. He added that he had informed the retired general of his decision before leaving the PDP and obtained his blessing, noting that Danjuma, though non-partisan, remains a respected father figure.

Kefas said his discussions with President Tinubu focused on security, agriculture, and the welfare of Taraba residents. He described the meeting as meaningful and his first formal engagement with the president since joining the APC.

On governance, the governor highlighted improvements in the state’s security situation since he assumed office. “While no society is completely crime-free, incidents of violence and unrest have reduced,” he said.

He also pointed to progress in agriculture, including the introduction of mechanised farming through imported tractors and increased access to modern equipment. The next phase, he noted, will focus on establishing local processing facilities to enhance value addition and create jobs.

Despite mixed reactions to his defection, Kefas expressed confidence in his political standing, asserting that he remains connected with the people and optimistic about future collaboration with the Federal Government.

He further urged citizens to use the near overlap of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan for prayer, unity, and renewed commitment to national peace and development.

Looking ahead, Kefas declared confidence in his ability to deliver Taraba State for President Tinubu in the 2027 elections, citing ongoing improvements in security and governance outcomes across key sectors.