By Solomon Attah, Jalingo
In a significant move to consolidate unity within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, stakeholders have reached a consensus for the upcoming state congress after extensive consultations among both legacy members and recent defectors into the party. This resolution comes in the wake of internal disagreements primarily focused on the distribution of party positions, which threatened to escalate into a more severe crisis.
Recognising the urgency of the situation, Governor Agbu Kefas convened an emergency stakeholders’ meeting at the TY Danjuma House in Jalingo. The meeting saw the participation of prominent figures, including Uba Maigari, the Minister of State for Regional Development; the Speaker of the Taraba State House of Assembly; and several members of the National Assembly, such as Haruna Manu, Shuaibu Lau, and Jimkuta. Former Governor Jolly Nyame and the APC Zonal Woman Leader, Haruna Sani, also lent their presence to this pivotal gathering.
During the meeting, Governor Kefas articulated his commitment to strengthening the APC and fostering unity rather than marginalising existing stakeholders. “I am not in the APC to infringe on anyone’s rights or take what belongs to anybody. We are here to work and to add value to the system and to ourselves,” he asserted, emphasising the importance of collective responsibility in achieving the party’s mandates.
Kefas underscored that the success of the party hinges on collaborative efforts, stating, “We have the mandate, and one person cannot achieve it. It has to be a collective effort.” He also highlighted that discussions surrounding the conduct of party congresses had been addressed at the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, yet he acknowledged the need for tailored approaches reflective of Taraba’s unique circumstances.
“While I align with the broader position, coming to my own terrain, I had to apply initiative based on the situation on the ground. I ensured that everyone was given an opportunity without interference,” he explained. His commitment to transparency and fairness was unequivocal, assuring stakeholders that any missteps would be rectified.
In the wake of these discussions, the National Deputy Women Leader of the APC, Hajiya Zaina Ibrahim, conveyed to journalists that the Taraba congress would unfold peacefully and strictly adhere to the party’s constitution. She reiterated that consensus would remain the primary method for conducting the congress, in line with the APC’s guidelines, which also elaborate on the caucus’s role in decision-making.
Expressing optimism about the outcome, Ibrahim remarked that the adoption of consensus illustrates a unified front within the party as they prepare for the 2027 elections. “The congress will be conducted through consensus, with stakeholders agreeing on a list of leaders to guide the party’s affairs. This is a clear indication that the APC in Taraba State is united ahead of the upcoming elections,” she stated.
This consensus arrangement marks a pivotal moment for the APC in Taraba, as it seeks to present a united front in the lead-up to the elections. The commitment to inclusivity and fairness, as articulated by Governor Kefas and other stakeholders, reflects a renewed focus on collaboration and unity within the party.
As the political landscape in Nigeria continues to evolve, the APC in Taraba is poised to navigate the challenges ahead with a united front, demonstrating that internal harmony can be achieved through dialogue and consensus. This strategic approach not only strengthens the party’s foundation but also enhances its prospects for success in future elections.
In conclusion, the resolution to adopt a consensus for the state congress is a testament to the APC’s commitment to unity and collaborative governance in Taraba State. With key stakeholders on board, the party is set to move forward, ready to face the electoral challenges of the coming years with renewed vigour and purpose.
