Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, on Saturday officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) and was formally received by Vice President Kashim Shettima at a ceremony held in Jalingo.

Speaking on behalf of President Bola Tinubu, Shettima described the defection as a moment of pride for both the APC and the country. He praised Governor Kefas for his inclusive leadership style and commitment to the development of Taraba State.

“The APC was built as a meeting point for people committed to development. Today, it is a thing of pride that Taraba has joined this fold. We welcome our brother home because, in truth, he has always been with us,” Shettima said, adding that the governor’s decision aligns with the party’s founding ideals of progress and inclusivity.

The vice president commended Kefas for his understanding of Taraba’s ethnic and religious diversity and urged residents to support the governor’s development agenda.

“We are proud of Governor Agbu Kefas for his sense of inclusivity and his development drive. I urge the people of Taraba State to support him as he delivers on his mandate,” Shettima said, describing Kefas as the undisputed leader of the APC in the state.

Kefas had initially planned to defect in November 2025 but postponed the move due to the kidnapping of students in Kebbi State. The formal defection was later announced in December 2025 and carried out in January 2026.

Also speaking, APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwada, described the defection as a major boost for both the party and Taraba State, noting that it would help unlock the state’s economic and developmental potential. He urged the governor to unite all party stakeholders and assured both old and new members of equal rights and opportunities within the APC.

In his response, Governor Kefas said his decision to join the APC was driven by service rather than personal ambition, stressing the need to align politically to deliver sustainable development to the people of Taraba State.

“This is not about power, but purpose. We must align in order to deliver development. I will not abandon the mandate given to me; rather, I will strengthen it and ensure fairness to all,” Kefas said.