The race for the 2027 governorship election in Taraba State has gained significant momentum as Governor Agbu Kefas, former Minister of Transportation Mu’azu Jaji Sambo, and prominent All Progressives Congress (APC) chieftain David Sabo Kente have officially obtained the party’s expression of interest and nomination forms.
The development signals the beginning of what is shaping up to be a highly competitive governorship contest ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Governor Kefas, who is seeking a second term in office, received his nomination forms from members of the Taraba State House of Assembly alongside National Assembly lawmakers from the state, who jointly purchased the documents on his behalf.
Speaking while receiving the forms, the governor expressed appreciation for the gesture, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in his administration.
He said the support would further inspire him to continue delivering democratic dividends and developmental projects to the people of Taraba State.
In a similar development, Kente was formally drawn into the race after his supporters and APC stakeholders from all 16 local government areas of the state reportedly purchased the nomination forms for him.
Addressing journalists, former APC State Secretary, Godwin Villannah, said Kente’s entry into the contest followed what he described as a unanimous endorsement by party stakeholders and support groups.
He cited Kente’s political experience, influence, and broad acceptability as major factors behind the decision.
Villannah, however, raised concerns about internal dynamics within the APC, alleging that some founding members of the party in Taraba had been sidelined.
He warned that such developments could affect the party’s readiness ahead of the 2027 governorship election if not properly addressed.
Also entering the race, Sambo signalled his preference for a direct primary election system.
According to him, adopting a direct primary would ensure fairness and create a level playing field for all aspirants contesting the party’s ticket.
Speaking through his media aide, Sam Idiagbonya, the former minister said persistent pressure from supporters across the state influenced his decision to join the contest.
He expressed confidence that the APC’s internal processes would ultimately produce a credible candidate capable of winning the governorship election.
With multiple aspirants now officially in the race, political analysts believe the APC governorship primary in Taraba is shaping up to be one of the most closely watched contests ahead of the 2027 elections.
The growing number of aspirants is expected to test the party’s internal cohesion while providing party members with a range of choices as they prepare to select a candidate.
The outcome of the primary election could significantly influence the political landscape in Taraba, particularly as parties continue strategic realignments ahead of the general elections.
What You Should Know
The emergence of multiple governorship aspirants in Taraba reflects growing political activity ahead of the 2027 elections.
Governor Agbu Kefas’ bid for a second term will likely face strong scrutiny, while APC aspirants Mu’azu Sambo and David Sabo Kente add significant weight to the opposition contest.
The debate over whether the APC adopts direct or indirect primaries may become a major issue, as it could influence candidate emergence and party unity.
Political observers believe Taraba’s governorship race could become one of the most competitive contests in the North-East as parties intensify mobilisation.
