Kente step aside from Taraba governorship primary election, citing abandonment of old APC member 

A frontline governorship aspirant of the All Progressive Congress, APC, in Taraba state, Chief David Sabo Kente, has announced his decision to step aside from participating in the election slated to hold on Thursday, 21st May 2026.

Kente announced the decision while addressing a press conference in his house, located opposite DSS Quarters in Jalingo, Taraba state capital, on Wednesday.

He said after being approached by the governor of Taraba state, Agbu Kefas, who is also in the race, he has gone ahead with wider considerations with his political associates, religious and traditional leaders within and outside the state, to decide to step aside from the election.

He further lamented that the old members of the APC in the state have been completely abandoned by the new party members who have taken over the party structure in the state.

Kente also disclosed that the National Assembly primary election that recently took place in the state was marred by malpractices, which further convinced him that the gubernatorial primary election will be the same.

As you are also aware, His Excellency, Governor Agbu Kefas, my younger brother, visited me here shortly after I arrived in Jalingo and requested that I 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 concluded that nothing good can 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.