From Celestine Ihejirika, Jalingo
A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, Chief David Sabo Kente, has yielded to mounting pressure from party stakeholders and supporters, following the presentation of the party’s 2027 governorship nomination form to him by a coalition of party leaders.
The development sparked jubilation across parts of the state, as news spread that Kente—widely regarded as one of Taraba’s foremost philanthropists—had finally accepted the call to join the 2027 governorship race after initially declining the offer several times.
Addressing journalists, the coalition, speaking on behalf of the Chief David Sabo Kente Political Organisation and concerned APC stakeholders in Taraba State, said the move became necessary in view of recent political developments in the state.
The group recalled that on April 14 and 15, 2026, APC stalwarts and stakeholders from the 16 local government areas met in Wukari, where they unanimously endorsed Kente as their preferred candidate for the 2027 governorship election.
According to the coalition, the meeting resolved to raise funds to purchase both the expression of interest and nomination forms for Kente, urging him to contest and “rescue Taraba State.” Although he initially declined, they insisted that the overwhelming demand from the people made it imperative for him to reconsider.
The coalition further noted that during the last election cycle, Kente had directed members of his political structure across the state to support Governor Agbu Kefas, despite the latter being in the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) at the time. This, they said, was due to dissatisfaction with the APC’s candidate, whom they described as lacking broad appeal.
They, however, expressed disappointment with the current administration, stating that expectations for improved governance and delivery of democratic dividends had not been met over the past three years.
“Instead of tangible development, what we have witnessed are unfulfilled promises, despite the significant resources available to the state,” the group said.
The coalition also accused Governor Kefas of sidelining long-standing APC stakeholders since his defection to the party, alleging that party affairs were being run in a manner that excluded key contributors to the party’s growth.
It further criticised the administration’s handling of appointments, claiming that opportunities had not been equitably distributed between existing APC members and those who joined from the PDP.
On infrastructure, the group described the recently commissioned Ibi–Nwonyo road as underwhelming, noting that several other promised projects—including the Wukari flyover, township roads, and an international stadium—had yet to materialise. It added that conditions of roads in Jalingo had worsened despite earlier assurances.
The coalition also questioned the outcomes of the governor’s foreign trips, stating that anticipated investments had not been realised.
“As committed party members and concerned citizens, we are worried about the preparedness of the APC ahead of the 2027 governorship election,” the group said.
It expressed confidence in Kente’s leadership qualities, citing his experience, acceptability across the state, and track record in philanthropy and development initiatives.
According to the coalition, Kente’s emergence would not only boost the party’s electoral chances but also provide an opportunity for a new leadership capable of repositioning Taraba State.
The group called on the APC to ensure a transparent and level playing field during the primaries, allowing party members to make informed choices.
It concluded by urging Kente to heed the call of the people and accept the challenge of contesting for the governorship, describing it as a “rescue mission” for the state.
