David Kente withdraws from Taraba APC governorship primary

A frontline governorship aspirant of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, David Sabo Kente, has announced his withdrawal from the party’s governorship primary election scheduled for Thursday, May 21, 2026.

Kente made the announcement on Wednesday while addressing journalists at his residence opposite the DSS Quarters in Jalingo, the Taraba State capital.

The APC chieftain explained that his decision followed extensive consultations with political associates, religious leaders, and traditional rulers within and outside the state after being approached by Agbu Kefas, who is also contesting in the race.

According to him, the appeal by Governor Kefas for political understanding and stability prompted him to reconsider his ambition in the interest of peace and unity in the state.

Kente, however, expressed disappointment over what he described as the neglect of long-standing APC members in Taraba, alleging that newer entrants into the party had completely taken over the party structure.

He also criticised the recently concluded National Assembly primaries in the state, alleging that the exercise was riddled with irregularities, a development he said further weakened his confidence in the credibility of the forthcoming governorship primary.

“As you are also aware, His Excellency, Governor Agbu Kefas, my younger brother, visited me here shortly after my arrival in Jalingo and requested me to allow him to complete his remaining four years. I told him to give me time and allow me to consult with my supporters and stakeholders.

“I want to inform you all that while I was still consulting, I have come under immense pressure lately from leaders across religious, political, and ethnic divides both within and outside the State who clamour for political stability of our dear state and party.

“I have also observed with dismay the ongoing primaries of our dear party in the State and have come to the conclusion that nothing good can possibly come out of it.

“Consequently, after due consultation with all relevant stakeholders especially my political supporters who sacrificed their resources to purchase the expression of interest and nomination forms for me, I want to announce to you of my decision to step aside from the race.

“Let me emphasise here that no one has settled me. My decision is strictly in the interest of political stability, peace, and unity of our party and the entire Taraba State. This is not for any personal gain. Quite to the contrary, I have already invested hugely in this project, but I must put the people first, thus my decision to step aside from the race,” Kente stated.