I Am Still In Taraba Governorship Race, Kente Insists

A governorship aspirant on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, Chief David Sabo Kente (DSK), has denied reports alleging that he was financially induced to step down for Governor Agbu Kefas, insisting that he remains firmly in the race.

Kente said consultations are still ongoing with his supporters and key stakeholders of the party across the state on the next line of action, adding that no decision has been taken to withdraw from the contest.

Reacting to his recent meeting with Governor Agbu Kefas while speaking with journalists at his residence in Jalingo, Kente said the governor’s visit should not be interpreted as a political settlement or an indication that he had stepped down.

According to him, Governor Kefas had earlier visited him after winning the 2023 governorship election to appreciate his support, stressing that the recent visit was consistent with their past interactions and should not be politicised.

Kente said discussions during the visit also touched on the temporary closure of the APC secretariat when he went to submit his intent and nomination forms in Jalingo.

He stated that although he was initially told the secretariat was shut for renovation, the governor later explained that it was closed to prevent possible security breaches.

“The governor gave convincing reasons concerning the closure of the secretariat, especially in view of recent security concerns in the state,” Kente said.

He dismissed claims that he had agreed to withdraw from the governorship race, insisting that he remained in consultations with political associates, elders, and supporters.

“There was nothing like withdrawing from the race. Consultations are still ongoing and most of the people I have spoken with believe I should continue,” he said.

Kente further disclosed that during discussions with the governor, he requested that the APC governorship ticket be considered for him, arguing that as a “senior brother” in politics, he should be allowed to contest.

He also denied allegations that he was offered money to step down, describing the claim as false and baseless.

“I have never collected money from anybody to step down from any political contest since I joined politics in 2014,” he said.

Kente maintained that he personally finances his political activities and does not rely on inducements.

He also alleged irregularities in the APC House of Representatives primaries in Taraba State, claiming that results were predetermined before electoral materials arrived at polling units.

“There was no valid primary election anywhere in Taraba to the best of our knowledge,” he alleged.