2027: No Automatic APC Guber Ticket for Gov. Kefas — Ex-APC Chairman, Hassan Jika Ardo

A former Nigerian envoy and pioneer Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Taraba State, Hassan Jika Ardo, has dismissed any possibility of Governor Agbu Kefas securing an automatic governorship ticket in the APC ahead of the 2027 elections.

In an exclusive interview, Ardo confirmed widespread speculation that Governor Kefas is considering a defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC. However, he emphasized that any such defection would not entitle the governor to special privileges within the party.

“The APC is open to all Nigerians, including Governor Kefas, but joining the party does not mean anyone will be handed the governorship ticket on a silver platter. There will be no automatic ticket for anyone. We will conduct primaries, and whoever wins will carry the party’s flag,” Ardo said.

Criticizing the governor’s performance since assuming office, Ardo alleged that Kefas has failed to fulfill many of his campaign promises, despite receiving substantial federal allocations over the past two years.

“Yes, the governor has made commendable efforts in improving security across the state, but beyond that, there’s little to celebrate. His so-called free education scheme is in shambles. No uniforms, no sandals, students sitting on bare floors, and overcrowded classrooms. That’s the sad reality,” he lamented.

Ardo further accused the Kefas administration of lacking originality in governance, claiming that most infrastructure projects touted by the government are either inherited or rebranded.

“He is simply renaming and remodeling projects. No new roads, no completed projects — just propaganda. Governor Kefas has lost public trust and has become a political liability,” Ardo stated.

He urged the people of Taraba State to objectively evaluate the governor’s track record and set aside partisan loyalties when making political choices in the next election cycle.

“Tarabans must open their eyes and reclaim their destiny. This state deserves better,” he added.

Governor Kefas is yet to respond to the claims as of the time of filing this report.