A major political development has emerged in Taraba state, as prominent businessman and politician, Chief David Kente, has officially withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship race, citing the need to preserve political stability, peace, and unity within both the party and the state.
Key Highlights:
Kente announced his decision on Wednesday in Jalingo, expressing deep disappointment over the conduct of the APC primaries, which he said had lost credibility and could no longer produce a meaningful outcome.
According to the APC stalwart, his withdrawal followed wide-ranging consultations with political stakeholders, supporters, traditional leaders, and influential figures cutting across religious, ethnic, and political divides within and outside Taraba State.
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Kente revealed that he initially entered the governorship race after persistent appeals from residents who believed the current administration had failed to meet the expectations of the people and desired a new direction for the state.
Despite his initial hesitation, he said overwhelming support from the public eventually convinced him to contest. He cited the massive reception he received in Wukari and Jalingo as evidence of his broad acceptance and popularity across the state.
In a significant revelation, Kente disclosed that the incumbent Governor, Agbu Kefas, personally visited him shortly after his arrival in Jalingo, and appealed to him to allow the administration complete its remaining four-year tenure without political distractions.
The governorship aspirant explained that while consultations with his supporters were ongoing, mounting pressure from respected leaders within and outside the state eventually persuaded him to reconsider his ambition in the broader interest of peace and stability.
“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 have decided to step aside from the race,” Kente stated.
He firmly denied speculations that financial inducement influenced his decision.
“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,” he declared.
Kente acknowledged the enormous financial and personal investment he had committed to the governorship project but maintained that the collective interest of the people must take precedence over individual ambition.
He further called on his supporters to remain calm, loyal to the APC, and continue backing the Tinubu administration because of its good intentions for both Taraba State and Nigeria.
The politician assured his supporters that he would continue to provide political guidance in the days ahead while remaining committed to the vision of building a more prosperous and united Taraba State and Nigeria.
