Kente Reveals Why He Stepped Aside from Taraba 2027 Governorship Race

The political atmosphere in Taraba State has been stirred following the decision of prominent governorship aspirant, David Sabo Kente, to withdraw from the 2027 governorship race. The development has sparked mixed reactions among his supporters and political stakeholders across the state.

While some supporters have expressed disappointment and uncertainty, Kente and his camp maintain that the decision was not driven by weakness or compromise, but rather by considerations of peace, unity, and political maturity.

In a statement released on Friday in Jalingo by his media consultant, Ben Adaji, the former aspirant explained that this marks the first time he has voluntarily stepped down from a governorship contest, despite years of sustained ambition to lead Taraba State.

He noted that in previous attempts, particularly in 2015, he remained in the race until the end despite political pressure and challenges.

The statement also referenced past electoral cycles within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba, recalling that in 2019, former Acting Governor Sani Abubakar Danladi joined the party from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and went on to secure its governorship ticket. Similarly, in 2023, Senator Emmanuel Bwacha reportedly clinched the APC ticket after defecting from the PDP shortly before the election.

According to observers, these references were aimed at highlighting Kente’s consistency and loyalty to the APC despite recurring internal realignments that have shaped the party’s governorship decisions in the state.

Adaji further disclosed that Kente’s withdrawal followed extensive consultations with religious leaders, traditional rulers, and key stakeholders within and outside Taraba State.

He said the appeals centered on the need to sustain peace and ensure political stability in the state ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Political analysts have interpreted the development as a reflection of increasing reliance on consensus-building and stakeholder intervention in Nigeria’s party politics, particularly in politically sensitive regions.

The statement also dismissed claims circulating in some quarters that Kente may have been financially induced to step down from the race.

It stressed that Kente had invested significant personal resources into his governorship ambition and remained committed to the APC’s project in Taraba State.

Supporters argued that his long-standing political engagement has always been driven by a desire to promote development and effective leadership rather than personal financial gain.

The statement further emphasized his business background, noting that the funds committed to his political pursuit could have yielded substantial returns if invested in other ventures, particularly in Abuja’s real estate sector.

To his allies, this is presented as evidence that his ambition was rooted in service to the people of Taraba rather than profit-making.

Kente was also quoted as saying, “God knows my heart, and everyone is entitled to his opinion.”

While some supporters have described his withdrawal as a strategic sacrifice for the greater good, others view it as a painful setback, especially for those who invested time and resources in his campaign.

The statement, however, urged supporters to remain calm and hopeful, assuring them that future political opportunities still exist.

“There is always another time. There could also be several other opportunities,” it added.

Kente’s exit is expected to significantly influence political calculations within the APC ahead of the 2027 governorship election in Taraba State.

As one of the party’s notable figures in the region, analysts believe his next political steps and potential alliances could play a major role in shaping the outcome of the race.

For now, Kente appears focused on framing his decision as one guided by consultation, conviction, and a commitment to peace and stability in Taraba State.