09/10/2025
TARABA AT A TURNING POINT: IS IT ABOUT DEVELOPMENT OR POLITICAL SURVIVAL?
Mohammed Tikka
There’s a growing wave of political speculation sweeping across Taraba State. At the center of it is a rumor that Governor Agbu Kefas may be planning to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC), the ruling party at the federal level.
Supporters of the governor describe the possible move as a strategic step “for the good of the state.” They argue that since Taraba is under an opposition party, it has been sidelined by the federal government in terms of support, visibility, and investment.
According to them, aligning with the party in power could open up more opportunities for federal attention, improved funding, and faster development. They point out that Taraba, despite being rich in natural resources and tourism potential, still faces serious challenges. Many roads remain in poor condition, healthcare services are overstretched, and basic amenities like clean water and electricity are lacking in several communities.
Even in Jalingo, the state capital, infrastructure has not kept pace with other cities in the region. In rural areas, the situation is even more difficult, with residents frequently raising concerns over poor roads, limited school facilities, and inadequate healthcare equipments. For a state that has been under PDP leadership since 1999, many citizens are now asking what tangible progress has been made over the years.
However, not everyone agrees that being in opposition is to blame.
Voices from within the state, like Alhaji Musa Mai Kasuwa, a local trader, and Ali Guzama, a resident of Ardo-Kola, have offered a different perspective.
“You only need to look at Adamawa and Bauchi,” Musa says. “Both states are run by PDP governors, Ahmadu Fintiri and Bala Mohammed, and they are making steady progress. Roads are being built, even flyover bridges schools are being improved, and hospitals are getting better. They didn’t have to switch parties to get things done.”
Ali adds, “Even some APC states are still struggling. So it’s not about the party, it’s about leadership and how seriously the government takes its responsibility to the people.”
Some political observers believe it may be rooted in concern over recent political setbacks. The PDP’s loss in the Karim Lamido I federal constituency bye-election, an area considered a PDP stronghold, was a major blow. The APC’s victory there signaled a possible shift in the political landscape and raised alarms within the state’s ruling party.
With the 2027 general elections fast approaching, some believe the governor and his team may be exploring ways to strengthen their position and avoid further losses. To them, aligning with the federal government might seem like a safer path politically, even if it doesn’t necessarily guarantee better outcomes for the people.
But many in Taraba are no longer moved by party switches or political calculations. They are focused on results.
The people want working roads, reliable hospitals, better schools, and job opportunities. They want a government that listens and delivers,vnot one that gets distracted by party politics. Whether Governor Kefas stays with the PDP or joins the APC, the expectations remain the same.
Taraba doesn’t need more political drama. It needs serious development. And when 2027 comes, voters won’t be looking at party flags. They’ll be looking at what was delivered. Because in the end, performance, not party, is what truly matters.
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