The group, speaking from the state capital on Thursday, emphasized that aligning with the APC-controlled federal government would end years of “political isolation” and bring in more infrastructure projects, federal appointments, and economic benefits. 

“If Governor Kefas joins the All Progressives Congress (APC), Taraba will gain direct access to federal projects, resources, and opportunities that our people, especially the youth, desperately need,” the coalition’s spokesperson stated.

The youths framed their appeal as non-partisan, focused on progress rather than politics. “We want development, not division. 

We want bridges that connect us, not politics that separate us. We want roads, power, jobs, and opportunities that secure our future,” they added, while praising Kefas as “a man of courage and vision” whose leadership would thrive under APC alignment.

The call has fueled speculation about Kefas’s political future ahead of the 2027 elections. Elected on the PDP ticket in 2023, the governor has maintained cross-party support through his inclusive governance, including youth empowerment programs, free basic education initiatives, and investments in agriculture and tourism. 

However, tensions with the federal government over project allocations have persisted.Reacting to the rumours, APC chieftain and former governorship aspirant Chief David Sabo Kente, from Kefas’s hometown of Wukari, denied any involvement in facilitating a defection. 

“I want to put it on record that I am a loyal member of the APC… He did not and has not informed me of his intention to join the APC. 

For me, it is still in the realm of rumours,” Kente said.Kente, known as DSK among supporters, revealed he had initially pledged not to contest the 2027 race in solidarity with Kefas but is now reconsidering due to overwhelming calls from backers. 

“Most of them have even volunteered to buy my form… I may be contesting the election after all,” he disclosed, dismissing suggestions that his ambitions are linked to Kefas’s potential switch.

Political observers view the youth push as part of broader realignments in the Northeast, where APC defections from PDP ranks have surged in states like Gombe and Bauchi for “developmental gains.” 

A Jalingo-based analyst noted, “The pressure on Kefas to join the APC is not surprising, especially considering the dominance of the party at the national level.” 

Another cautioned that defection could “polarise the political space in Taraba and weaken the PDP.”

Governor Kefas has remained silent on the matter, with aides insisting he is undeterred by speculation. 

“His Excellency is not distracted by political rumours. He is focused on his vision for Taraba on education, security, and infrastructure,” one senior official said anonymously.

As the APC positions itself to challenge PDP’s historical hold on Taraba, the coalition’s demand highlights the high stakes: Kefas’s decision could either consolidate federal ties or deepen local divisions in the lead-up to 2027.