A former Secretary of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Taraba State, Stephen Othaniel, has blamed the party’s defeat in the just concluded Karm-Lamido 1 by-election on poor leadership and the underwhelming performance of the current state administration.

Speaking to journalists in Jalingo on Wednesday, Othaniel stated that the PDP’s long-standing dominance in the area had been undermined by internal issues and growing discontent among voters.

“Ordinarily, PDP would have won the election without stress because Karim has always been a PDP stronghold,” Othaniel stated. “But the people lost trust after the former PDP lawmaker resigned to take up a commissioner position, abandoning the mandate freely given to him by the electorate.”

He further criticised Governor Agbu Kafes, claiming his administration has failed to meet expectations despite receiving significant federal allocations and securing loans.

“It has never been this bad since the creation of Taraba State. In two years, with the highest revenue and borrowing levels, the governor has done practically nothing. This is not just about Karim, it’s a clear, statewide message ahead of 2027,” he added.

Othaniel, who contested in the 2023 general elections under the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), commended the independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and security agencies for ensuring a credible and peaceful electoral process during the by-election.

“Generally, the election was free, fair, and credible. INEC followed the electoral guidelines, and I’d give them an 85 per cent pass mark. Security operatives were proactive and professional, something I’ve not seen in my 30 years of political experience,” he said.

He disclosed that attempts to disrupt the election were swiftly curtailed, including the arrest of a sitting lawmaker allegedly caught trying to snatch ballot papers.

“Thankfully, the security agencies acted swiftly. Those involved are currently in custody and will be prosecuted according to the law,” he confirmed.

Othaniel also expressed concern over the state’s deteriorating security, accusing the governor of failing to respond adequately to the crisis.

“People are losing confidence in the administration. Insecurity is getting worse, and the government seems indifferent. This by-election result is the people’s way of expressing their frustration and demanding change,” he concluded.

The outcome of the by-election was seen by political observers as a potential warning sign for the ruling PDP ahead of the 2027 general elections.