The All Progressives Congress on Tuesday announced the suspension of its planned grand reception for Taraba State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas, citing the recent abduction of schoolgirls in Kebbi State and the killing of security personnel engaged in counter-terrorism operations across the country.
The event, originally slated for Wednesday, was expected to officially welcome Kefas into the ruling party following his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party.
In a statement issued in Abuja, APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said the postponement was a mark of respect for members of the armed forces and civilians who recently lost their lives to terrorist attacks.
Morka added that the decision also honoured victims of abductions, particularly the schoolgirls seized in Kebbi State by what he described as “enemies of the state.”
“We salute the courage and sacrifices of our men and women in uniform who put their lives on the line in defence of our liberty and security.
“As we mourn the death of our dear compatriots, we pray for the safe return of our innocent students taken from their families by forces of evil,” he said.
He noted that a new date for the ceremony would be announced in due course, stressing that the APC sympathises deeply with the families affected by the tragedies.
The party also reaffirmed President Bola Tinubu’s determination to stamp out insurgency and banditry and ensure that perpetrators face justice.
The postponement came shortly after Governor Kefas himself opted to delay his widely anticipated defection to the APC. He described the abduction of 25 students from Government Girls Comprehensive Senior Secondary School, Maga, as “deeply troubling,” insisting that “compassion must take precedence over politics.”
The governor urged security agencies to intensify rescue efforts and appealed to Nigerians to remain calm, prayerful and united. He added that his defection would now occur only “after consultations and when deemed appropriate.”
Kefas had been expected to join the APC alongside a growing list of former opposition leaders, including Governors Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom, and Douye Diri of Bayelsa.
The APC’s National Working Committee had earlier confirmed full preparations for his reception before the unfolding security crisis prompted the change of plan.
