Taraba APC at Breaking Point as 2027 Governorship Battle Heats Up in Intense Political Showdown

Tensions are rising within the Taraba State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) as attempts to enforce a consensus arrangement for elective positions continue to meet strong opposition ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The internal dispute, which has already affected both state and federal legislative ambitions, has now widened to the governorship race, exposing deep divisions among key party stakeholders.

At the centre of the unfolding political struggle is the incumbent governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas, who is seeking a second term under the APC platform.

However, his ambition is being strongly challenged by two key contenders: philanthropist Chief David Sabo Kente and former Minister of Transportation, Mu’azu Jaji Sambo.

Party sources say intense negotiations and behind-the-scenes consultations are ongoing as leaders push for a consensus candidate in an effort to avoid a heated and divided primary election.

In what observers described as a strategic move to ease tensions within the party, Governor Kefas held a closed-door meeting on Friday night with Chief David Sabo Kente.

Those familiar with the meeting said discussions focused on reconciliation efforts and attempts to convince Kente to reconsider his rejection of the proposed consensus arrangement supporting the governor’s re-election bid.

The meeting followed Kente’s earlier declaration in Wukari, where he openly opposed the consensus plan and insisted on a transparent and credible selection process for the party’s governorship ticket.

Meanwhile, former Minister Mu’azu Jaji Sambo has maintained his rejection of the consensus option, arguing that only direct primaries can ensure fairness and legitimacy in selecting the party’s candidate.

Sambo has also stepped up consultations across the state, mobilising support across all 168 electoral wards ahead of the primaries.

Political observers believe the outcome of ongoing talks between Governor Kefas and Kente may determine whether the Taraba APC maintains unity or heads into a highly competitive and unpredictable governorship primary.