A major political shift has unfolded in Taraba State as prominent businessman and politician, Chief David Sabo Kente, has formally withdrawn from the All Progressives Congress (APC) governorship race, citing the need to preserve peace, stability, and unity within the party and the state.
Kente made the announcement on Wednesday in Jalingo, expressing dissatisfaction with the conduct of the APC primaries, which he described as having lost credibility and no longer capable of producing a meaningful outcome.
According to him, the decision followed extensive consultations with political stakeholders, supporters, traditional rulers, and influential figures across religious, ethnic, and political lines within and outside Taraba state.
The APC stalwart said he initially joined the governorship race following repeated appeals from residents who believed the current administration had not met public expectations and required a new direction.
He added that despite initial hesitation, widespread encouragement from the public convinced him to enter the contest, citing large turnouts and receptions in Wukari and Jalingo as evidence of his acceptance across the state.
In a notable revelation, Kente disclosed that Governor Agbu Kefas had personally visited him shortly after his arrival in Jalingo and appealed for restraint, urging that the administration be allowed to complete its four-year tenure without political distractions.
Kente explained that while consultations with his supporters were ongoing, increasing pressure from respected leaders within and outside the state ultimately influenced his decision to step aside 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,” he said.
He dismissed suggestions that his withdrawal was influenced by financial inducement, insisting the decision was voluntary and guided strictly by considerations of unity and stability.
“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 stated.
Kente acknowledged the significant financial and personal investments made in the governorship project but stressed that collective interest must outweigh individual ambition.
He also urged his supporters to remain calm, loyal to the APC, and continue backing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as committed to the progress of both Taraba State and Nigeria.
The politician further assured that he would remain politically active, offering guidance and support toward what he described as the vision of building a more united and prosperous Taraba State and Nigeria.