2027: PLATEAU PDP’S MOVES TO PUT ELECTABILITY BEFORE SENTIMENT.

(By WALBE OGAK )

As political parties across Plateau State begin to position themselves for the 2027 General Elections, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) appears determined to confront one of the most critical questions that often defines electoral success or failure: who has the capacity, popularity and acceptability to win?

According to  the Spokeman of PDP Dr. Samaila Achigak A. Rukuba SPS. In what can be described as a deliberate political strategy aimed at strengthening the party’s chances across the state, the Plateau State chapter of the PDP constituted a special committee to undertake a comprehensive assessment of its prospects in all the 24 State Assembly constituencies.

The assignment of the committee goes beyond routine political consultations. It represents an attempt by the party to subject its electoral preparations to a careful analysis of political realities at the grassroots, particularly the popularity and acceptability of candidates within their respective constituencies.

Dr. Samaila said the committee was inaugurated in August 2026 and was chaired by the Zonal Vice Chairman of the PDP Northern Zone, Ishaku Chuntai.

Other members included Hon. Gideon Tyem, former CTC Chairman, who served as Secretary; Hon. Rindap Nansoh, the State PDP Organising Secretary; Barr. Pius Tongmakuk, the State PDP Legal Adviser; and Capt. Golen.

THE POLITICS OF ELECTABILITY

In every election, political parties face a difficult balancing act between loyalty, ambition, party interests and electoral realities.

While party membership and long-standing commitment remain important, elections are ultimately decided by voters. A candidate who enjoys internal support but lacks grassroots acceptance may become an electoral liability, just as a popular candidate with weak party structures may struggle to convert popularity into votes.

It is against this background that the PDP committee was mandated to examine the political strength and electoral viability of selected candidates across the state.

The committee was specifically directed to assess the popularity and acceptability of candidates, examine complaints from constituents concerning their capabilities and chances of electoral success, and make recommendations that could improve the party's prospects.

Significantly, the committee was also empowered to explore the possibility of recommending changes where candidates were found to be politically weak or where alternative candidates with stronger electoral prospects could improve the party's chances.

This approach signals a strategic shift towards a campaign philosophy in which electability, grassroots connection and public confidence become major considerations in the party's preparations for 2027.

FIVE DAYS OF POLITICAL CONSULTATION

For five days, members of the committee engaged in consultations and assessments across the affected constituencies.

The exercise provided an opportunity for the party to listen to stakeholders, examine political realities on the ground and identify areas where strategic intervention may be required.

Such internal assessments are increasingly becoming important in modern political campaigns.

Winning elections requires more than public rallies and campaign posters. Successful campaigns are built on accurate intelligence, effective grassroots structures, candidate acceptability, voter perception and the ability of a political party to respond to emerging challenges before they become electoral problems.

The committee's report, therefore, is expected to serve as an important strategic document for the PDP as it prepares for the 2027 elections.

PUTTING THE PARTY FIRST

The central message emerging from the exercise is that the PDP is seeking to place the collective interest of the party above individual ambitions.

Political contests naturally produce competing interests, but a party that intends to win must have the courage to evaluate its strengths and weaknesses honestly.

The decision to conduct constituency-by-constituency assessments demonstrates an understanding that political realities differ from one constituency to another.

What works in one area may not necessarily work in another.

A candidate who is highly popular in one constituency may not have the same advantage elsewhere. Local issues, community relationships, past performance, party structures and the personal credibility of candidates can all influence electoral outcomes.

The PDP's strategy, therefore, appears to recognise the importance of treating each constituency according to its peculiar political realities.

REPORT NOW BEFORE PARTY LEADERSHIP

The committee has now completed its assignment and formally submitted its report to the Plateau State PDP Chairman and the State Executive Committee.

The party leadership is currently reviewing the recommendations with a view to taking strategic decisions that will strengthen the PDP's position ahead of the 2027 General Elections.

While the final decisions of the party will ultimately emerge from the review process, the exercise has already sent a strong message about the PDP's determination to avoid complacency.

The 2027 election, political observers believe, will require political parties to combine strong candidates with effective party structures, grassroots mobilisation and a convincing message to the electorate.

For the PDP, the challenge will be to translate the findings of the committee into decisions that promote unity while also improving the party's chances at the polls.

FAIRNESS, UNITY AND INCLUSIVENESS

The State Party Chairman has assured candidates and stakeholders that the process will be guided by fairness and inclusiveness.

This assurance is particularly important because candidate selection and political realignments can sometimes generate tension within political parties.

The PDP leadership, however, insists that its overriding objective is to rebuild the party, strengthen its structures and position it to reclaim its mandates.

The party has also expressed appreciation to members of the committee for their dedication and diligence, describing their assignment as an important contribution to the PDP's strategic direction.

THE ROAD TO 2027

With the report now before the party leadership, attention will shift to the decisions that follow.

The PDP's strategy appears clear: identify weaknesses early, strengthen vulnerable areas, listen to the grassroots and ensure that the party enters the election with candidates capable of commanding public confidence.

As the countdown to the 2027 General Elections gathers momentum, political parties across Plateau State will increasingly be compelled to answer difficult questions about their candidates, structures and capacity to mobilise voters.

For the Plateau PDP, the submission of this report may represent more than the conclusion of a committee assignment.

It could mark the beginning of a broader political recalibration.

The message is unmistakable: the road to victory in 2027 will not be travelled on assumptions, sentiments or political entitlement alone. It will require strategy, unity, grassroots intelligence and, above all, candidates with the credibility and capacity to win the confidence of the electorate.

As the PDP reviews the committee's recommendations, the party's next decisions could play a significant role in determining how strongly it competes across the 24 State Assembly constituencies in 2027.

UNCLE RAY: STOP PLAYING POLITICS WITH THE SOUL OF PLATEAU PDP- Dr. Samaila Achigak A.

There comes a time in the life of every political party when silence becomes complicity.

That time has come for the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State.

The recent political conduct and posture associated with Chief Raymond Dabo, popularly known as Uncle Ray, can no longer be treated with silence, diplomatic niceties or political pretence.

The PDP on the Plateau is too important, too historic and too deeply rooted in the sacrifices of its founding fathers to be treated as a political commodity to be traded, manipulated or controlled to satisfy the ambitions of individuals and external interests.

Uncle Ray must understand one fundamental truth: the PDP is bigger than him.

It was there before many of today's political actors arrived, and it will remain long after they have left the political stage.

UNCLE RAY, THIS IS NOT ABOUT CRIMINALITY—IT IS ABOUT CHARACTER

Let it be clearly understood: nobody is accusing Chief Raymond Dabo of theft or any criminal offence requiring the intervention of the EFCC, ICPC, Police or DSS.

This is not a criminal trial.

This is a question of political morality, leadership responsibility and personal integrity.

And these are matters that every serious political leader must be prepared to answer before the people.

Leadership is not just about titles, appointments, influence and access to power. Leadership is about the example one leaves behind.

There is a generation watching.

Young members of the PDP are watching how elders conduct themselves. They are watching whether political loyalty can be exchanged for convenience. They are watching whether party institutions can be weakened whenever powerful individuals find it politically convenient.

What lessons are we teaching them?

That principle should disappear when personal interest appears?

That party loyalty should be sacrificed when power changes direction?

That institutions should become subordinate to individuals?

No. That must never become the political culture of the PDP in Plateau State.

A LEGACY SHOULD NOT BE DESTROYED FOR POLITICAL CONVENIENCE

Chief Raymond Dabo has a history within the PDP. Nobody can erase that.

He has enjoyed recognition, influence and political relevance within a party whose foundation was built through the sacrifices of countless leaders and faithful members.

That is precisely why the present concerns are so serious.

Those who have benefited from the goodwill of an institution should be among its strongest defenders—not among those whose actions create doubts about its independence and future.

The PDP is not a family estate.

It is not a private political company.

It is not an extension of anybody's personal ambition.

And it certainly must not become a surrogate political structure for interests outside the party.

The people of Plateau State are watching.

Party members are watching.

History is watching.

THE FELICIA DABO APPOINTMENT AND THE QUESTION NOBODY SHOULD RUN FROM

While congratulations are extended to Mrs. Felicia Raymond Dabo, sincere questions must still be asked.

Is she the only qualified person within the broad political family?

Are there no other committed PDP members, loyal supporters, women and families who have laboured for the party and deserve similar consideration?

These are legitimate political questions.

And legitimate questions must not be treated as acts of rebellion.

The PDP was built on collective sacrifice. It was never meant to become a system where opportunities appear to circulate around a narrow political circle while thousands of loyal party members remain on the sidelines.

If fairness and inclusiveness are no longer important, then the party must honestly ask itself: what exactly are we defending?

The PDP cannot preach collective participation while practising political exclusiveness.

GOVERNOR MUTFWANG HAS MADE HIS CHOICE—THE PDP MUST MAKE ITS OWN

Governor Caleb Mutfwang has the constitutional right to choose his political party.

Nobody can take that right away from him.

But political choices have consequences.

When a political leader leaves one party for another, he has made a decision about his political direction.

That decision must be respected.

However, what must not be accepted is any attempt to maintain influence over, control or remotely operate the PDP through individuals or structures that appear to be acting as political proxies.

Let us be clear:

The PDP is not an annex of the APC.

The PDP is not a waiting room for politicians who have chosen another political destination.

And the PDP must not be transformed into a political spare tyre to be used whenever it becomes convenient.

Those who have chosen another political platform should concentrate on building that platform.

The PDP belongs to those committed to rebuilding it.

SHOW US THE LEGITIMACY—DON'T JUST SHOUT IT

One of the greatest problems in the current political debate is the reckless tendency to declare legitimacy without presenting the evidence.

Let those making claims of leadership come forward with verifiable proof.

Let them show the recognised structures.

Let them demonstrate their legitimacy through the appropriate institutional and legal channels.

Legitimacy is not a slogan.

It is not something that can be manufactured through press statements, social media propaganda or political intimidation.

Legitimacy must be rooted in due process, recognised structures and the constitution of the party.

The PDP is governed by rules.

Nobody is above those rules.

No political godfather, no former office holder and no influential individual can wake up and declare himself bigger than the constitution of the party.

Where a structure has been dissolved in accordance with party guidelines and due process, those decisions must be respected.

The era of political self-coronation must end.

THE PDP CANNOT BE HIJACKED

The PDP in Plateau State belongs to its members—not to a handful of individuals.

It cannot be hijacked.

It cannot be auctioned.

And it cannot be surrendered to external political interests.

The party has survived difficult times because ordinary members stood firm when powerful individuals abandoned ship.

That is why the sacrifices of the faithful must never be taken for granted.

The legacy of the late Chief Solomon Lar and other great leaders who built the PDP must not be reduced to a bargaining chip in today's political marketplace.

Those who built the party did not sacrifice their time, energy and resources for it to become a vehicle for personal political transactions.

ENOUGH OF THE POLITICAL DOUBLE GAME

The time has come to speak plainly.

There can be no meaningful rebuilding of the PDP where individuals attempt to play political double games.

You cannot claim to belong to one political family while working to weaken it for the benefit of another.

You cannot abandon the party politically and then seek to determine who controls it.

You cannot undermine its structures and still demand to be treated as its unquestionable authority.

The PDP must choose principle over convenience.

Those who genuinely believe in the party must stand openly with the party.

Those who have chosen another political direction are entitled to do so.

But they must also allow the PDP to breathe, organise and rebuild without interference.

TO THOSE FOLLOWING BLINDLY: WAKE UP

To those who are following political arrangements without asking critical questions, this is the time for reflection.

Do not allow yourselves to become instruments in political games you do not fully understand.

Do not surrender your political future to individuals whose interests may change tomorrow.

Political promises come and go.

Appointments come and go.

Power changes hands.

But your name, your integrity and your political history remain with you.

Think carefully before allowing yourselves to be used to weaken a party that has given many of you political identity and relevance.

As the saying goes, make hay while the sun shines—but do not lose your political conscience while chasing temporary opportunities.

KEFFIANO REMAINS OUR GOVERNORSHIP CANDIDATE

Let there be no ambiguity.

Let there be no confusion.

Keffiano remains our governorship candidate.

Those attempting to create confusion through parallel claims, political manoeuvres and competing narratives should understand that the future of the PDP cannot be determined through intimidation or personal influence.

The party must move forward based on its recognised structures, constitution and collective decisions.

THE FINAL WORD TO UNCLE RAY

Uncle Ray, humility remains one of the greatest virtues in leadership.

Political power is temporary.

Appointments are temporary.

Influence is temporary.

But history is permanent.

The question is not how powerful anyone appears today.

The real question is: what will history say tomorrow?

Will it say that you helped protect and strengthen the PDP when it needed its elders most?

Or will it say that you stood on the wrong side of history when the integrity and independence of the party were under threat?

This is the time for reflection.

This is the time for humility.

And this is the time to place the larger interest of the PDP above personal political calculations.

The PDP in Plateau State is not for sale.

It is not a private estate.

It is not a surrogate.

And it must never be surrendered to the ambitions of individuals or interests outside its legitimate structure.

The party belongs to its faithful members.

And Plateau PDP must be rebuilt, protected and defended—without fear, without compromise and without apology.

Dr. Samaila Achigak A. Rukuba

SPS, Plateau PDP

September 4, 2026

11 YEARS IN DARKNESS: CONCERNED IRIGWE YOUTHS DEMAND RESTORATION OF ELECTRICITY IN MIANGO

(By WALBE OGAK)

Concerned Irigwe youths in Miango, Bassa Local Government Area of Plateau State, have called for urgent intervention to end what they described as an unacceptable 11-year electricity blackout in the community.

The youths made the demand on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, during a press conference held at the Plateau State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Jos.

Addressing journalists, spokesman of the group, Bitrus Adamu Izhi, said Miango had remained without electricity since 2015, following the disconnection of the community by the Jos Electricity Distribution Company (JEDC) over outstanding electricity debts.

According to him, the prolonged blackout has severely affected the socio-economic life of the community, with farmers, students, artisans, traders, health workers and families bearing the consequences.

Izhi said that before a meeting with the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) in Abuja in December 2016, Miango had 682 registered electricity customers, while the outstanding post-privatisation debt stood at N51,418,095.27.

He explained that following reconciliation and intervention by NERC, the debt was reduced to N38 million as of June 2017, with the amount directed to be migrated and shared among metered individual customers in the community.

The youths claimed that consumers had subsequently remitted about N28 million, leaving a balance of approximately N10 million.

They, however, expressed concern over the emergence of the Miango Community Energy Project Enterprise, which they alleged was established without the knowledge or consent of electricity consumers in the community.

The group said the initiative emerged after the District Head of Miango, His Highness Daniel Chega, constituted a committee to mobilise residents towards settling the outstanding electricity debt.

According to the youths, the committee allegedly went beyond its mandate by establishing and registering the company, with Mr. Williams Chatalas as chairman.

Other officials named by the group were Mr. John Willy Iche, Secretary; Mr. Haruna Jibo, Financial Secretary; and Pastor Emmanuel Benedict Zamfara, Treasurer.

The group alleged that the company subsequently entered into an arrangement with JEDC to collect electricity-related payments from consumers in Miango.

It further alleged that JEDC unilaterally suspended the individual accounts of consumers and created a single account through which the intermediary company collected payments from residents.

The youths said residents initially believed that the money being collected, including funds raised through donations from concerned indigenes, was being used to offset the community's electricity debt.

They alleged, however, that the arrangement failed to resolve the situation and that the entire community subsequently remained disconnected from the electricity supply.

The group further claimed that as of May 2023, the amount allegedly owed JEDC by the Miango Community Energy Project Enterprise stood at N194,912,366.86.

The concerned youths therefore urged JEDC to explore mechanisms for recovering whatever debt it claims from the intermediary company, while allowing individual Miango consumers to settle the outstanding N10 million balance previously attributed to them once their accounts are restored.

The youths also alleged that efforts by the paramount ruler of Rigwe land, the Braa Nggwe Rigwe, Reverend Ronku Aka (rtd.), to resolve the matter were unsuccessful, accusing the committee of failing to provide an account of funds collected despite several invitations.

According to the group, the paramount ruler eventually exercised his authority to dissolve the committee following growing frustration over the situation.

The youths questioned the legality and propriety of the alleged arrangement between JEDC and the community-based company.

They asked whether JEDC had the legal authority to suspend individual customers' accounts and transfer or subcontract the collection of electricity bills to a third party without the consumers' consent, and whether such an arrangement is consistent with Nigeria's electricity regulatory framework.

FOUR KEY DEMANDS

The concerned Irigwe youths demanded that the Miango Community Energy Project Enterprise provide a comprehensive explanation of its transactions with JEDC on behalf of electricity consumers in Miango.

They also demanded full disclosure of all funds collected by the organisation from its inception as a committee and subsequently as a registered company, including details of money received, expenditures and payments allegedly made towards the electricity debt.

The group further called on the organisation to stop representing or transacting with JEDC on behalf of Miango electricity consumers, citing what it described as a lack of accountability.

The youths also demanded that JEDC immediately restore all suspended consumer accounts and discontinue transactions with the Miango Community Energy Project Enterprise in respect of individual Miango electricity consumers.

CALL FOR GOVERNMENT INTERVENTION

The group appealed to Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, to intervene urgently in the matter.

Izhi recalled that the governor had publicly expressed his commitment to restoring electricity to Miango during the previous year's annual Irigwe Cultural Day.

The youths therefore urged the governor to constitute an independent investigative committee to examine the circumstances surrounding the 11-year blackout, scrutinise the financial records of the Miango Community Energy Project Enterprise and determine whether any individual or organisation should be held accountable.

They also called for an investigation into the role allegedly played by JEDC in the establishment of the intermediary arrangement.

The group said that where wrongdoing is established, appropriate anti-corruption and law-enforcement agencies, including the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) and the Nigeria Police Force, should investigate and prosecute anyone found culpable.

PEACEFUL PROTEST PLANNED

The concerned youths also announced plans to stage a peaceful protest as part of their ongoing advocacy for the restoration of electricity in Miango.

They said the protest would be aimed at drawing public attention to the community's plight and demanding clarity, accountability and the restoration of normal electricity services.

The group expressed appreciation to individuals, organisations and non-Irigwe communities that had supported their campaign, stressing that their advocacy would remain within the bounds of peace and due process.

They also commended the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Honourable Bernard Doro, and other stakeholders in Rigwe land for their efforts towards finding a solution to the crisis.

The youths, however, warned prominent personalities who had remained silent on the matter that their actions or inactions would be remembered by the people.

The spokesman said the group was relying on the media to amplify the voice of the affected community and help bring an end to what they described as 11 years of darkness and deprivation.

“We invite the press, which has proven over time to be on the side of truth and justice, to lend us a voice in this struggle to liberate our people from darkness,” Izhi said.

IN DEFENCE OF SHABUL MAZADU: WHEN POLITICAL CONVICTION EVOLVES

From Criticism to Support: Understanding the Journey Behind Shabul Mazadu’s Changing Position on Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda.

By (WALBE OGAK)

In recent days, social media, particularly Facebook, has been awash with posts circulating old comments attributed to Shabul Mazadu, in which he was critical of the political activities and camp surrounding Professor Nentawe Yilwatda.

While the posts are being presented by some as evidence of inconsistency, a closer understanding of Shabul Mazadu's personality, political philosophy and convictions suggests a different interpretation.

Those who know Shabul closely describe him as a man who does not pretend, sit on the fence or conceal his opinions for political convenience. He is known to speak his mind, even when doing so is unpopular or politically inconvenient.

For Shabul, political loyalty has never meant abandoning personal conviction. His supporters argue that he has consistently demonstrated the willingness to defend what he believes is right and to challenge what he considers to be wrong.

One of the defining characteristics attributed to Shabul is his unwillingness to compromise his principles, particularly on issues concerning Plateau State.

At the time he expressed reservations about Professor Nentawe Yilwatda and some members of his political camp, his position was shaped by concerns arising from previous political engagements. In particular, there were individuals around the political structure whom he did not trust because of their past actions and relationships.

It is therefore important, in assessing his earlier statements, to understand the political circumstances under which they were made rather than simply reproducing isolated comments from the past.

Political positions are often shaped by prevailing circumstances, relationships, experiences and available information. As circumstances change, individuals are entitled to reassess their positions.

The evolution of Shabul Mazadu's position is also consistent with the broader reality of Nigerian politics, where political alliances and opinions frequently change.

Across the country, individuals and groups who once vehemently opposed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, including those who criticised the Muslim-Muslim presidential ticket, have subsequently become supporters of his administration and, in some cases, beneficiaries of government programmes.

This does not necessarily mean that their earlier positions were dishonest. It may simply demonstrate that politics is dynamic and that political actors can change their minds when circumstances, policies or perceptions change.

The same principle should therefore apply to Shabul Mazadu.

Shabul's current support for Professor Nentawe Yilwatda should, therefore, not automatically be interpreted as a betrayal of his earlier convictions.

Rather, it can be viewed as a position arising from a reassessment of the Professor's leadership qualities, humanitarian interventions and approach to political relationships.

Supporters of the Professor point particularly to what they describe as his humanitarian disposition, forgiving spirit and willingness to engage across political divides.

For many Plateau people who once criticised Nentawe but now support him, the argument is simple: leadership should ultimately be judged by actions and character rather than by yesterday's political disagreements.

Shabul's position, therefore, may be less about abandoning his principles and more about responding to what he now considers a different political reality.

The political journey of Professor Nentawe Yilwatda itself provides an interesting backdrop to this development.

A figure who once faced significant political opposition and criticism has continued to build a broader political profile, with supporters increasingly portraying him as a leader capable of transcending previous political divisions.

For those who now support him, his journey represents the familiar political metaphor of “the rejected stone becoming the cornerstone.”

The lesson from the unfolding political narrative is that political opinions should not necessarily be permanently frozen in time. People can disagree, criticise, reassess and ultimately support the same person they once opposed.

Beyond the controversy surrounding old Facebook posts, the more important question should be whether political actors are willing to put the broader interests of Plateau above personal grievances and historical disagreements.

Shabul Mazadu's current position provides an opportunity to reflect on the changing nature of Plateau politics. If his support for Professor Nentawe Yilwatda is genuinely based on conviction arising from what he now considers positive leadership attributes, then it should be understood within that context.

Political maturity is not necessarily demonstrated by refusing to change one's mind. Sometimes, it is demonstrated by the courage to reassess one's position when circumstances and evidence change.

For Shabul Mazadu, the message appears clear: he is not pretending, he is not sitting on the fence, and he is not selling his conscience. He is making a political choice based on his present conviction.

And in the ever-changing theatre of Nigerian politics, yesterday's critic can become today's supporter—not necessarily because principles have been abandoned, but because perceptions, circumstances and convictions have evolved.

SHALOM

Walbe Ogak 

07036573313

HON. AMOS GOMBI: A GRASSROOTS MOBILISER POISED TO LEAD GAGDI CAMPAIGN TO VICTORY

(BY WALBE OGAK)

Appointment as Director General of Rt. Hon. Gagdi Campaign Team Signals Confidence in Proven Political Capacity

The appointment of Hon. Amos Gombi as the Director General of the Rt. Hon. Gagdi Campaign Team has been widely described as a strategic choice capable of strengthening the campaign structure and driving grassroots mobilisation across Plateau State.

The appointment has also attracted commendation from political stakeholders and supporters, who see it as recognition of Gombi's years of political engagement, commitment to service, and understanding of the dynamics of grassroots politics.

As a former member of the Plateau State House of Assembly, coupled with his experience in various party positions and political appointments, Hon. Amos Gombi has built a reputation for political organisation, loyalty, mobilisation, and team building.

His emergence as Director General is therefore being viewed as an opportunity to bring his wealth of experience and political networks to bear on the campaign of Rt. Hon. Gagdi.

For supporters of the campaign, the task ahead goes beyond political structures. It requires effective coordination, strategic communication, grassroots engagement, stakeholder mobilisation, and the ability to unite supporters behind a common political objective.

Hon. Gombi is regarded as a politician who understands these demands. His experience at the legislative and party levels has exposed him to the realities of grassroots politics and the importance of building bridges among party members, leaders, supporters, and critical stakeholders.

His supporters describe him as a grassroots mobiliser, political strategist, loyal party man, and team player, qualities considered essential to the success of any electoral campaign.

With the 2027 general elections approaching, expectations are high that the new Director General will deploy his experience to build an inclusive and effective campaign organisation capable of reaching voters across communities and political constituencies.

The confidence placed in Hon. Gombi is also reflected in the goodwill surrounding his appointment, with supporters expressing optimism that his leadership will provide the campaign with the coordination, discipline, energy, and strategic direction required to pursue victory.

As he assumes the responsibility, prayers and goodwill have been extended to him for wisdom, strength, sound health, and success in the discharge of his duties.

For the supporters of Rt. Hon. Gagdi, the message is clear: the campaign has entrusted a critical responsibility to a man considered capable of mobilising the grassroots and translating political structures into electoral strength.

Hon. Amos Gombi now has the task of leading from the front, uniting the team, strengthening the grassroots, and building the momentum towards victory.

Congratulations to Hon. Amos Gombi on his appointment as Director General of the Rt. Hon. Gagdi Campaign Team.

RUME COLLAPSES POLITICAL STRUCTURE FOR YOKDEN, CALLS FOR APC UNITY IN PANKSHIN NORTH

Former APC Aspirant Urges Supporters to Put Collective Interest Above Personal Ambition

(By Walbe Ogak)

In a significant show of political maturity and party loyalty, former APC aspirant for the Pankshin North State House of Assembly constituency, Hon. Bldr. Raphael Chinkik Rume, has announced the collapse of his entire political structure in support of the party's flag bearer, Hon. Rotshak Gideon Yokden, ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Rume, who contested the APC primary election for the Pankshin North constituency seat, said although the outcome did not favour him, he had accepted the result in good faith, attributing the development to God's will.

For Rume, however, the conclusion of the primary election should not mark the end of political engagement within the party, but rather the beginning of a broader effort to consolidate the APC and position it for victory at the polls.

In a message to his supporters, coordinators, party leaders and constituents across the ten wards of Pankshin North, the former aspirant said politics should transcend personal ambition and remain firmly rooted in service, sacrifice, progress and the collective interest of the people.

“Politics is not just about personal ambition. It is about service, progress, and the future of our people,” Rume stated.

The decision to throw his weight behind Yokden, he explained, followed deep reflection and consultations with stakeholders, supporters and members of his political family.

He said the move was motivated by the need to promote unity, progress and sportsmanship within the APC, stressing that the party's strength lies in its ability to accommodate divergent interests while working towards a common objective.

A Message to His Political Structure

Addressing his supporters and coordinators across the ten wards, Rume urged them to redirect the energy and organisational capacity built during his campaign toward ensuring victory for the APC candidate.

He reminded them that they supported his aspiration because of their belief in integrity, capacity, competence and purposeful leadership, urging them to demonstrate those same values by placing the larger interest of Pankshin North above individual political ambitions.

“Let history record that we were not selfish, but patriotic,” he declared.

The statement is particularly significant coming from a politician who had built a considerable grassroots structure during the contest for the APC ticket.

Rather than allow the outcome of the primary to become a source of division, Rume has chosen to consolidate his supporters behind the party's candidate, presenting his decision as a demonstration of political maturity and commitment to the larger APC family.

Beyond Personal Ambition

The development also highlights the growing importance of post-primary reconciliation as political parties prepare for the 2027 elections.

For the APC in Pankshin North, bringing together different aspirants, supporters and grassroots structures could prove crucial to its electoral prospects.

Rume's appeal therefore goes beyond his personal supporters. It is a call for members of the party to close ranks, reconcile differences and work collectively toward a common political objective.

He urged his supporters to remain committed to the party and work for a convincing APC victory in Pankshin North.

“Let us do this together. Let us deliver Pankshin North for APC,” he said.

The former aspirant concluded by calling for continued unity and dedication among party members, while expressing confidence that a united APC would be better positioned to achieve victory.

For Rume, the message is clear: political ambition may produce contestants, but only unity, discipline and collective purpose can produce victory.

And in Pankshin North, he is asking his political family to make that transition—from campaign structures built around an individual aspiration to a collective movement for the APC.

Hon. Bldr. Raphael Chinkik Rume, MNIOB, FNIOBMFM, F-IMCN, CPM, CFM, CIPSMN, is a former APC aspirant for the Pankshin North State House of Assembly Constituency.

WOMEN, GRASSROOTS AND THE 2027 POLITICAL BATTLE: PWASG PANKSHIN BUILDS ITS STRUCTURE FOR APC

(By Walbe Ogak)

As Nigeria gradually moves towards the 2027 General Elections, political mobilisation is shifting from the big rallies and high-profile endorsements to the grassroots, where voters, particularly women, remain a decisive force in determining electoral outcomes.

In Pankshin Local Government Area of Plateau State, the Plateau Women Alliance Support Group, PWASG, appears determined to position itself at the centre of that grassroots mobilisation.

On August 29, 2026, the Pankshin Chapter of the group inaugurated its Ward and Unit Coordinators in a ceremony that brought together APC leaders, political stakeholders, women, traditional and religious leaders and party supporters from across the local government.

The event was not merely a formal inauguration. It represented an attempt to build a political structure capable of taking the APC campaign message beyond political gatherings and into wards, communities, polling units and households.

At the heart of the mobilisation is a three-level political agenda: support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the federal level, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang at the state level, and all APC candidates contesting the 2027 elections.

For PWASG, the importance of grassroots structures cannot be overstated.

Campaigns may be launched in city centres, but elections are ultimately decided at polling units. It is therefore the strength of ward and unit structures that often determines whether political promises are translated into actual votes.

It was against this background that the newly inaugurated PWASG coordinators were charged to take ownership of the mobilisation process in their respective areas.

Their mandate is to engage women, encourage political participation, promote PVC collection and build support for APC candidates from the presidential election down to the State House of Assembly.

The message from the leadership was clear: the 2027 political contest must not be left to chance.

Women constitute one of the most important voting blocs in Nigerian politics, and political parties increasingly recognise that effective engagement with women can significantly influence electoral outcomes.

PWASG's Pankshin mobilisation is therefore built around the belief that women should not merely attend political rallies or serve as spectators during campaigns, but should become active participants in political organisation and decision-making.

The group's Convener, Chief Agnes Rahila Fwangchi Jakadiyan Bungha, used the occasion to emphasise unity, political consciousness, empowerment and participation.

Her message to the coordinators was equally direct: remain committed to the cause, defend their rights and avoid allowing political opponents to mislead them with what she described as false promises.

The unveiling of the PWASG T-shirt and wrapper added another dimension to the event.

Beyond their symbolic value, political colours, clothing and group identity often serve as tools for building solidarity and creating visibility at the grassroots.

For PWASG, the unveiling signals an organisation seeking to move from an informal support network into a more identifiable and structured political mobilisation platform.

The presence of APC leaders and candidates at the event further reinforced the political significance of the gathering.

Among those present were Hon. Charity Dimlong, APC Chairperson of the Central Zone, who served as Mother of the Day; Hon. Dr. Cletus, Commissioner for Works; Hon. David Barji, APC Senatorial Candidate for Plateau Central; Hon. Gambo Dimlong, representing Hon. Yusuf Gagdi, APC candidate for the Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency; Hon. Rokshak Gideon, APC candidate for Pankshin North; and Hon. Nanpan Dafur, APC candidate for Pankshin South.

Also present were Mrs. Margret Felix Amos Gonung, who represented the Executive Chairman of Pankshin LGA; Mrs. Laraba Emmanuel Mangni, Adviser to PWASG Pankshin Chapter; the APC Women Leader in Pankshin, party executives, ward chairmen, traditional and religious leaders and a large number of women.

Beyond speeches and political mobilisation, the organisers introduced an element of social support.

Ten elderly women, aged between 65 and 80, received ₦5,000 each from the Convener as a gesture of appreciation and support.

Although modest, the intervention reflects a familiar dimension of grassroots politics in Nigeria, where political engagement often intersects with social welfare, community relationships and personal networks.

The beneficiaries were also asked to offer their motherly blessings and prayers for the growth of the organisation.

One of the strongest messages from the PWASG leadership was its insistence that the organisation is not merely a political group existing on paper.

Chief Agnes Rahila Fwangchi Jakadiyan Bungha described PWASG as a genuine and active organisation with members drawn from different professional and social backgrounds.

She listed civil servants, businesswomen, bankers, retired Permanent Secretaries, former Deputy Chairmen, former Heads of Service, lawyers, retirees and women from other walks of life among its membership.

The Convener also made it clear that the organisation is currently sustained through contributions from its founder and members and is yet to receive government sponsorship.

That declaration appears intended to underline the group's independence and its claim that its activities are being driven by members' commitment rather than government funding.

The real test for PWASG, however, will not be the size of its inauguration ceremony.

It will be its ability to translate the enthusiasm displayed at Pankshin into a functioning political machine capable of reaching voters at the polling-unit level.

The newly inaugurated coordinators now have the responsibility of transforming organisational structures into political engagement: identifying voters, encouraging PVC collection, communicating the party's message and sustaining contact with communities long after political rallies have ended.

For the APC, the significance is equally clear.

With the 2027 elections approaching, every ward, unit and voting bloc matters.

And in Pankshin, PWASG is positioning its women network as one of the vehicles through which the party hopes to consolidate support for Tinubu, Mutfwang and its candidates.

The group's declaration — “Women United for APC Victory 2027: From Top to Bottom” — therefore goes beyond a slogan.

It is a political mobilisation strategy whose success will ultimately be measured at the ballot box.

For now, the groundwork has begun.

The coordinators have been inaugurated. The political identity has been unveiled. The women have been mobilised.

The next phase is taking the campaign to the grassroots — one ward, one unit and one voter at a time.