• Denies ‘cash for defection’ move to APC
• Vows to deliver Taraba to Tinubu in 2027

TARABA State Governor, Agbu Kefas, yesterday dismissed speculations of a strained relationship with elder statesman and former Defence Minister, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (rtd), insisting that his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was neither controversial nor financially induced.

Kefas, who spoke with journalists after meeting President Bola Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, described Gen. Danjuma as a father figure whose guidance and goodwill remained intact despite his political realignment.

He said his recent visit to the retired general was personal and symbolic, aimed at appreciation and reaffirmation of their long-standing bond.
He said: “I don’t have any problem with T.Y. 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,” Kefas stated, adding that Danjuma, though not a member of any political party, was duly informed before his move to the APC and gave his blessing.

“Before I defected, I secured his approval. He assured me of his support whenever I need it.”

Addressing rumour that financial incentives influenced his defection to the ruling party, Kefas flatly denied receiving any money, describing such claims as unfounded political gossip.

“Nobody gave me money to defect to the APC,” he said, stressing that his decision was driven by conviction and strategic considerations for the development of Taraba State rather than pecuniary benefits.

He also expressed satisfaction with his new political platform, saying he remained optimistic about the opportunities it presented for the state.

The governor further declared confidence in his ability to deliver Taraba State for President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, citing what he described as visible improvements in security and governance outcomes across critical sectors.

Kefas disclosed that his closed-door meeting with President Tinubu centred on security, agriculture and the welfare of Taraba residents, as well as strategies to strengthen collaboration between the state and the Federal Government.

He described the engagement as “very meaningful,” noting that it marked his first formal interaction with the President since joining the ruling party and would open the door for deeper intergovernmental cooperation.

The governor further described the near alignment of the Christian Lenten season and the Muslim holy month of Ramadan as symbolic, urging citizens to use the period for prayer, unity and renewed commitment to national peace and development.