APC Chieftain Kente Declines Supporters' Offer to Fund 2027 Taraba Governorship Bid
Chief David Sabo Kente, a prominent chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and former governorship candidate in Taraba State, has publicly explained his decision to reject an offer from his supporters to purchase the party's nomination form for the 2027 governorship election. Kente made this clarification during a stakeholders' meeting held yesterday in Wukari local government council of Taraba State.
Meeting Details and Political Context
The gathering, which drew over 300 delegates including former and serving party officials from all 16 local government areas of the state, was convened to endorse Kente's potential candidacy and review political developments in Taraba. According to reports from The Guardian, the meeting served as a critical platform for assessing the state's political landscape and strategising for future elections.
While expressing gratitude for the supporters' gesture, Kente emphasised that accepting such financial assistance at this stage would be premature. He stressed that fairness and respect for the principle of power rotation should guide all political decisions in Taraba State.
Power Rotation and Fairness Concerns
Kente highlighted that the Central and Northern zones of Taraba have supported the Southern zone to occupy the Government House in Jalingo for more than a decade. He argued that it would be unjust to push for an extension beyond the expected tenure, stating, "It will be insensitive for us to begin to push for another possible eight years."
The APC chieftain revealed that he is still consulting widely with stakeholders both within and outside Taraba State before making any final decision regarding his political ambitions. This consultation process is ongoing despite increasing pressure from various groups urging him to contest the 2027 governorship election.
Criticism of Governor Kefas' Administration
The stakeholders' meeting also featured strong criticism of Governor Agbu Kefas' administration. Several speakers expressed dissatisfaction with what they described as the marginalisation of long-standing APC members who have contributed significantly to the party's growth in Taraba.
Participants alleged that party loyalists are being sidelined while appointments are largely given to new entrants into the APC. They warned that continued exclusion could force aggrieved members to support alternative candidates in future elections, potentially undermining party unity and electoral success.
Calls for Party Unity and Equitable Distribution
The forum called for equitable distribution of political appointments between old and new party members to foster unity within the APC. Kente urged party faithful to remain united and focus on grassroots mobilisation, particularly emphasising the importance of the ongoing voter registration exercise.
He stressed that electoral victory depends largely on active participation and voter turnout, urging members to engage fully in democratic processes. Kente also called for continued support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, noting that sustained backing would help consolidate ongoing development efforts at the national level.
Governance Style Critique
While acknowledging his role in the emergence of the current administration, Kente criticised the style of governance in Taraba State. He described it as resembling "a sole administrator presiding over a democratic system," suggesting concerns about democratic principles and inclusive leadership.
The meeting concluded with a renewed commitment to party unity and strategic planning, as APC members in Taraba navigate the complex political landscape ahead of the 2027 elections.
