Jalingo, the usually calm Taraba State capital, has began to pulsate with unusual political energy as air transport and convoys of black SUVs snake through the city’s major routes, announcing the arrival of some of the state’s most influential political heavyweights.
Their mission, to set the stage for what many already describe as the most consequential political realignment in Taraba’s recent history, which is the anticipated defection of Governor Dr Agbu Kefas from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDO, to the All Progressives Congress, APC.
The air around the state capital is charged with anticipation. Strategists, loyalists and observers are gathered in hushed clusters across hotels, party offices and private residences, dissecting what Kefas’ move could mean for Taraba’s political future.
Among the political figures who touched down in Jalingo were the State APC Chairman, Tukur Ibrahim El-Sudi, as well as powerful lawmakers and seasoned political actors including Senator Haruna Manu, Senator Shaibu Lau, former member of the House of Representatives\, Danladi Baido, and serving House members such as, Zaku Alhassan, Mark Bako Useni.
Labour leader, Bala Bobboi Kaigama, influential community figures like Ali Sani Kona, Alhaji Abubakar Joda and Musa Muwalid who also joined the growing list of political forces are all in the state.
Their presence underscores the gravity of the moment. For many, the expected reception of Governor Kefas into the APC is more than a party crossover. It signals a tectonic shift that could redefine the political architecture of Taraba.
In pockets of conversation across Jalingo, stakeholders spoke of a “new dawn,” of alignment, of an evolving political identity for the state.
The narrative emerging is one of transformation, an opportunity, they say, for Taraba to consolidate developmental strides under a broadened political coalition.
“This is not just about one man joining a new party,” one senior strategist remarked off-record. “It is about Taraba opening a new chapter one built on unity, strength, and sustainable political development.”
For Senator Sani Abubakar Danladi, the movement represents a strategic recalibration designed to place Taraba on a stronger national footing.
As the city braces for the grand reception event, one thing is unmistakable, Taraba State stands at the edge of a defining political moment. And with each arrival, each handshake, each strategic meeting behind closed doors, the countdown to Kefas’ defection gains momentum.