Taraba State Governor, Agbu Kefas, has refuted claims of a strained relationship between him and former Defence Minister, General Theophilus Yakubu Danjuma (retd.).
He also denied allegations that his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) was influenced by financial inducement.
Kefas made the clarifications during a media briefing after a closed-door meeting with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the State House in Abuja.
Describing Danjuma as a father figure, the governor said their bond remains strong despite his political move. He stressed that there has never been any misunderstanding between them.
“I have no problem with T.Y. Danjuma. He is like a father to me. Since we began our political journey, nothing has come between us. There is no issue whatsoever,” he said.
Kefas explained that his recent visit to the retired general was a personal gesture of appreciation and a reaffirmation of their long-standing relationship, built on shared military experience and years of association.
Although Danjuma is not affiliated with any political party, the governor disclosed that he informed him before defecting to the APC and received his blessing.
“Before I left the PDP, I sought his approval. He assured me of his support whenever I need it,” Kefas stated.
He dismissed claims that money influenced his decision, describing the allegations as unfounded.
“No one paid me to join the APC. My decision was based on conviction and the strategic interest of Taraba State’s development,” he said.
Kefas expressed optimism about the opportunities his new political platform offers, particularly in strengthening ties with the Federal Government. He also voiced confidence in delivering Taraba State for President Tinubu in the 2027 presidential election, citing improvements in security and governance.
“Winning Taraba will not be difficult because our policies are already making an impact at the grassroots,” he added.
The governor said his meeting with the President focused on security, agriculture, and the welfare of Taraba residents, describing the engagement as meaningful and a step toward deeper collaboration.
On concerns about possible resistance to his defection, Kefas maintained that he enjoys strong grassroots support and that his performance in office has earned public trust.
Addressing security, he said Taraba is now safer compared to when he assumed office, noting a significant reduction in violence and unrest.
He also highlighted progress in agriculture, including the introduction of mechanised farming through imported tractors and modern equipment, which he said has increased productivity. The next phase, he added, will focus on establishing local processing facilities to boost value addition, improve food supply chains, and create jobs.
Kefas further urged citizens to use the overlapping Christian Lenten season and Muslim Ramadan period as a time for prayer, unity, and commitment to peace and national development.
The governor formally defected from the PDP to the APC between late 2025 and early 2026, a move that has sparked mixed reactions across the state. While many political leaders and stakeholders have welcomed the shift as a strategic alignment with the Federal Government, critics argue it was politically motivated.
Recent defections by lawmakers, council chairmen, and party officials have continued to reshape Taraba’s political landscape, signalling a more competitive environment ahead of the 2027 general election.
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