APC Postpones Kefas Reception After Kebbi Schoolgirls’ Kidnap

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has postponed the planned reception for the Governor of Taraba State, Dr. Agbu Kefas, earlier scheduled for Wednesday, November 19, 2025, in Abuja.

The party said a new date will be announced later, citing respect for security personnel recently killed in violent attacks and solidarity with families affected by the latest schoolgirl abduction in Kebbi State.

The APC, in an official statement on Tuesday, said the decision reflects the party’s commitment to national sensitivity at a time when the country is grappling with renewed attacks by terrorists and bandits.

The party noted that it would be inappropriate to proceed with a celebratory gathering amid the grief and tension triggered by the kidnapping of innocent students and the killing of officers and civilians in recent incidents.

According to the statement, the postponement is a “mark of honor to members of the armed forces and citizens killed recently by forces of terror, and respect for victims of related incidents of abductions, especially of innocent students in Kebbi State by enemies of the state.”

The party expressed deep sympathy with bereaved families and condemned the abduction of schoolgirls, describing the attack as “despicable” and a deliberate assault on Nigeria’s collective peace.

It added that the incident underscores the ongoing security challenges that demand unified national resolve, political maturity, and heightened vigilance.

“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,” the statement read.

The APC also prayed for the safe return of the abducted students, urging security agencies to sustain intense operations to rescue the children unharmed.

The statement further reassured Nigerians that the President Bola Tinubu-led administration remains committed to defeating insurgency, banditry, and all forms of violent extremism across the country.

The party insisted that ongoing military operations are yielding results and that the perpetrators of the recent attacks “will be tracked down and brought to justice.”

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The APC noted that while political engagements and inter-party relationships remain important for national cohesion, the prevailing security situation makes it necessary to prioritize empathy, responsibility, and moral leadership. “Our great party commiserates deeply with families of victims of these incidents,” it added.

Governor Kefas, who was expected to be formally received into the APC at the rescheduled event, has yet to issue a personal statement on the development.

Party insiders say consultations will continue to ensure a new date is fixed once the national climate stabilizes and security agencies make headway in the rescue operation.

The party concluded by urging Nigerians to remain united, vigilant, and supportive of ongoing government efforts to restore peace in affected communities, emphasizing that national security must take precedence over political ceremonies.