Political tension is mounting in Taraba state as supporters of governor Agbu Kefas and former senator Emmanuel Bwacha clash over credibility and grassroots support ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

The pro Kefas group, known as the “Continuity Movement,” has criticised Bwacha’s ongoing consultations, describing them as a gathering of “failed and lightweight politicians with no electoral value.”

In a statement signed by its coordinator, Mallam Ibrahim Ardo, the group alleged that Bwacha’s strategy is centred on “Abuja-based political meetings” rather than genuine grassroots mobilisation. It argued that elections in Taraba are decided at the community level, not in elite circles in Abuja.

The group maintained that residents are already witnessing “tangible progress” under Kefas, who is expected to seek re-election on the platform of the All Progressives Congress.

It also questioned Bwacha’s political direction, accusing him of pursuing an agenda driven by bitterness and raising concerns over his alliances, claiming some former associates have distanced themselves since the 2023 elections.

Expressing confidence in the governor’s political strength, the group dismissed Bwacha as a serious contender. “We defeated him in 2023 and we will defeat him again in 2027,” it stated.

In response, Bwacha’s camp rejected the allegations, describing them as a sign of “panic and political insecurity” within the Kefas camp.

A statement signed by Ibrahim Bambur on behalf of the former senator’s media team argued that the criticism reflects a lack of confidence in the current administration’s performance. It maintained that Bwacha has been actively engaging stakeholders across all 16 local government areas and 168 wards in the state.

The group also dismissed claims that Bwacha’s allies lack relevance, insisting they are influential grassroots figures. It further attributed the outcome of the 2023 governorship election to internal disputes and legal challenges within the Peoples Democratic Party, rather than a deficit in support for the former lawmaker.

Outlining Bwacha’s agenda, the statement highlighted priorities including security, agriculture, youth employment, education, healthcare, and improved welfare for civil servants and pensioners, while rejecting claims that his ambition is driven by vendetta.

While the exchange underscores growing political rivalry in Taraba as both camps intensify preparations for 2027, observers who bared their minds to The Guardian, said while the rhetoric is escalating, the decisive factor will be each side’s ability to consolidate grassroots support in the years ahead.