Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has abruptly halted his much-anticipated defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that politics must “stand aside” as the nation grapples with the abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State.
The governor, who was scheduled to formally join the APC on Wednesday, said the heartbreaking attack has forced him into sober reflection.
In a solemn statement, Kefas said his decision was driven by moral responsibility, not political calculation.
“In the light of the deeply troubling incident of the kidnapping of innocent school girls in Kebbi State, I have taken the solemn decision to postpone my scheduled declaration and movement to the All Progressive Congress,” he said.
He stressed that the nation cannot be celebrating while families are in anguish.
“At a moment when our nation is once again confronted with the painful reality of insecurity, solidarity and compassion must rise above politics,” he added.
Kefas, whose administration prioritises security, education, and the protection of the vulnerable, said the country must unite in grief and resolve.
“Today, my heart is with the families of the abducted children, with the government and the people of Kebbi State and every Nigerian who feels the weight of this tragic incident especially President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.”
He called on security agencies to intensify rescue operations.
“I call on all security agencies, which I know they have the capacity to rescue these children, to intensify efforts to ensure the safe return of the girls.”
The governor urged Nigerians to stay calm, vigilant and prayerful, noting that a new date for his defection will be announced “when it is appropriate to do so.”
Last week, Kefas publicly declared his intention to dump the PDP for the APC, a move now placed on indefinite hold.
