Elections Are Won at the Ballot, Not on the Streets: An Open Letter to Politicians Sponsoring Protests Against Yusuf Gagdi

(BY WALBE OGAK)

Your rise in the political arena has been built on visibility, persistence, and a cultivated connection with the electorate across Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam. That standing, however, comes with obligations that cannot be ignored at critical moments.

Recent events have raised serious concerns.

The protest by youths reportedly aligned with your political structure against the aspiration of Hon. Yusuf Gagdi is not merely an expression of dissent—it is a troubling signal. It suggests a drift toward pressure tactics in place of structured democratic competition.

Let us be clear: the right to contest an election is constitutionally guaranteed. It is neither conditional nor subject to intimidation. Hon. Gagdi’s aspiration is lawful, and any attempt—direct or indirect—to delegitimize that right weakens the democratic framework that sustains all political actors.

Our recent political history offers clear lessons. Governor Caleb Mutfwang and others secured their mandates not by orchestrating protests or brandishing placards, but by engaging the electorate and earning votes at the ballot. Hon. Yusuf Gagdi himself, along with many others, did not arrive at office through sponsored demonstrations, but through sustained political engagement and voter confidence. That is the standard democratic pathway—tested, legitimate, and enduring.

Leadership, therefore, is not measured by the ability to mobilize crowds in the streets, but by the discipline to channel support into lawful and productive participation. When protests are deployed against a legitimate candidacy, it raises valid questions about strategic judgment and commitment to democratic norms.

If the objective is victory, the pathway is straightforward: engage the people, build consensus, and present a compelling case. Anything else risks being interpreted not as strength, but as political insecurity.

Your influence spans diverse communities. Deploying it in ways that appear sectional or exclusionary—whether intended or not—carries consequences. It erodes trust, narrows political reach, and ultimately weakens the base required for electoral success.

There are, no doubt, genuine concerns within segments of the constituency, particularly in Pankshin. Such concerns are valid in any vibrant democracy. But they are best addressed through dialogue, persuasion, and structured political engagement—not through orchestrated protests aimed at constraining participation.

This is a defining moment for leadership.

Elections are decided at the ballot, not in the streets. Aligning strategy with this principle will not only strengthen your political standing but also reinforce the integrity of the democratic process.

Yours faithfully,

Walbe Ogak

Ngolong Ngas Assures New Police Commander of Support for Crime-Free Pankshin

By WALBE OGAK 

The Ngolong Ngas, His Majesty Nde Jika Golit, has pledged the full support of traditional rulers in Pankshin and its environs to the newly posted Area Commander of the Police Central Area Command, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kenneth Clement Anuebunnwa, in a renewed push for a crime-free society.

In a press release sign by Wukaska Bako Gowon, Media Officer to the Ngolong Ngas.

The royal father gave the assurance when the police chief paid him a courtesy visit at his palace in Pankshin.

Speaking during the visit, the Ngolong Ngas urged the new Area Commander to sustain the cordial relationship established between the police and local communities by his predecessor. He emphasized the importance of collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions in maintaining peace and order.

“Our people are peace-loving and always ready to support initiatives that will improve their wellbeing,” the monarch said, adding, however, that criminality would not be tolerated among his subjects.

He assured the police commander of his readiness to provide guidance and support whenever necessary, noting that his palace remains open for consultations on matters concerning security and community development.

Earlier, ACP Anuebunnwa said his visit was to pay homage to the traditional ruler and formally announce his assumption of duty following the transfer of his predecessor to the Plateau State Police Command in Jos.

The Area Commander expressed his commitment to working closely with traditional rulers, whom he described as custodians of the land, as well as other security agencies to tackle security challenges and sustain peace in the area.

The visit featured prayers for peace and stability, as the Ngolong Ngas also offered royal blessings to the new police chief.

When Zoning Becomes a Crutch for Weak Politics

(BY WALBE OGAK)

In any serious democracy, elections are meant to be contests of ideas, competence, character, and public trust—not exercises in exclusion dressed up as principle. Yet, the recent chorus on social media urging Yusuf Gagdi not to contest on the grounds of zoning raises a troubling question: when did political competition become something to be avoided rather than embraced?

Let’s be clear—zoning, in its ideal form, was conceived as a mechanism for inclusion, a way to balance representation in a diverse polity like ours. It was never designed to be a blunt instrument for silencing viable contenders or shielding weak candidates from electoral scrutiny. When zoning is weaponized in this manner, it ceases to be about fairness and begins to look a lot like fear.

If politics is truly about service, performance, and the ability to connect with the people, then the electorate should be trusted to decide. Why, then, are some political actors more invested in telling a candidate not to run than in persuading voters why their own candidate deserves to win? That inversion of priorities is not only suspicious—it is deeply undemocratic.

The marketplace of ideas thrives on competition. Strong candidates do not shy away from opponents; they confront them. They campaign on their records, articulate their vision, and earn the confidence of the electorate. When a camp spends more time “de-marketing” an opponent than marketing its own candidate, it inadvertently sends a message of inadequacy.

One must ask: if your candidate is truly popular, credible, and capable, why the anxiety? Why the resort to zoning as a barricade instead of the ballot as a battleground?

This is not to dismiss the emotional and historical weight zoning carries in many communities. Issues of equity, inclusion, and rotational justice are real and deserve thoughtful engagement. But these concerns must not be reduced to convenient slogans deployed only when politically expedient. Selective adherence to zoning undermines its moral legitimacy and exposes it as a tool of convenience rather than conviction.

Democracy is not a gentleman’s agreement among political elites—it is a contest decided by the people. Attempts to pre-determine outcomes by discouraging participation strike at the very heart of that principle.

If Yusuf Gagdi—or any other aspirant—believes he has the capacity, the record, and the support base to contest, then the appropriate arena is the ballot, not the backroom. Let him run. Let others run. And let the people decide.

Anything less is not politics—it is gatekeeping masquerading as principle.

HON. ASAMA-INITIATED COMMITTEE LEADS DIALOGUE ON PLATEAU UNREST

(BY WALBE OGAK) 

Fresh momentum has been injected into efforts to address the recurring security challenges in Bassa Local Government Area and adjoining communities, as a high-level stakeholders’ dialogue convened by the House of Representatives Ad-Hoc Committee on Security pushes for inclusive and sustainable solutions.

The engagement, according to a press release signed by Comr. Boldmind Dave Jonathan, CRA, Press Secretary to the Member Representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, follows a Motion of Urgent Public Importance earlier raised on the floor of the House by Hon. (Amb.) Daniel Asama Ago. The motion drew national attention to the persistent attacks and deteriorating security situation in the area.

In response, the House constituted an Ad-Hoc Committee tasked with investigating the root causes of the crisis and proposing actionable recommendations to curb the violence and prevent future occurrences.

As part of its assignment, the committee convened a stakeholders’ hearing at Crispan Hotel in Jos, attracting a broad spectrum of participants including traditional rulers, community leaders, youth representatives, and civil society organisations. The session provided a platform for affected communities to articulate their grievances and contribute to shaping practical pathways toward lasting peace.

The broader dialogue, themed “Restoring Stability and Unity,” also featured the participation of lawmakers, religious leaders, and security agencies, underscoring a coordinated and multi-sectoral approach to tackling both the immediate and structural drivers of the conflict.

Hon. Asama, while commending the committee’s inclusive and consultative approach, stressed that enduring peace in Bassa and Plateau State must be anchored on justice, inclusion, and shared responsibility among all stakeholders.

He argued that resolving the crisis requires more than conventional security deployments, highlighting the need for sustained dialogue, active community participation, and targeted socio-economic interventions to address underlying tensions.

Observers note that the initiative represents a critical step toward integrating grassroots perspectives into policy formulation, with expectations that the committee’s findings will inform strategic actions aimed at restoring stability and reinforcing unity across Plateau State.

The dialogue comes amid ongoing concerns over insecurity in parts of Plateau, with stakeholders expressing cautious optimism that such engagements could lay the groundwork for long-term peacebuilding efforts.

Why Pankshin North Is Rallying Behind Bildr Raphael Rume

(WALBE OGAK)

As political activities gather momentum ahead of the forthcoming party primaries in Plateau State, stakeholders in Pankshin North are increasingly turning their attention to a candidate many describe as both grounded and forward-looking—Bildr Raphael Rume.

At the heart of his appeal is a strong grassroots connection. Across the wards of Pankshin North, Rume is widely regarded as accessible and attuned to the everyday realities of his people, a factor that has strengthened trust and broadened his support base.

Professionally, his background in building and construction is seen as a strategic advantage. In a constituency where infrastructure deficits remain a pressing concern, supporters argue that his technical expertise positions him to influence practical and sustainable development policies at the State Assembly.

Rume’s engagement with young people has also emerged as a defining feature of his campaign. By actively mobilizing youths and promoting their inclusion in governance, he is reshaping political participation and fostering a sense of ownership among the next generation.

Observers note that his record reflects more than campaign promises. His involvement in community-driven initiatives signals a consistent commitment to service, reinforcing his credibility as a candidate focused on results.

Central to his message is human capital development. From education to skills acquisition, Rume has continued to emphasize empowerment as a pathway to long-term prosperity for Pankshin North.

Many within the constituency also view his candidacy as part of a broader generational shift—one that blends fresh ideas with an understanding of existing leadership dynamics. This balance, they say, is critical in navigating today’s political landscape.

Inclusivity remains another cornerstone of his approach. By engaging women, youths, and underserved groups, Rume is positioning himself as a representative voice for all segments of the constituency.

His policy direction aligns closely with the immediate needs of the people, particularly in areas such as security, agriculture, infrastructure, and economic development—key issues that continue to shape public discourse in Plateau State.

Equally important is his ability to communicate effectively. Supporters believe his clarity of vision and advocacy skills will enable him to represent Pankshin North with strength and coherence at the legislative level.

With growing acceptance across political and community lines, analysts suggest that Raphael Rume’s candidacy could enhance his party’s prospects, not only at the primaries but also in the general election.

As the race unfolds, Pankshin North appears poised for a decision that could redefine its political trajectory—one that many believe is increasingly aligned with the candidacy of Bildr Raphael Rume.

Bldr. Raphael Rume commiserated with APC Fier Federal Ward over the deaths of Charles and Nendang.

The Aspirant for Pankshin North State House of Assembly, Builder Raphael Rume, has commiserated with officials and members of the Fier Federal Ward of the All Progressives Congress (APC) over the passing of two of its members.

The deceased include Mr. Charles Rotka of PHC Mudel Unit, who passed away on Sunday, April 12, 2026, after a brief illness. Late Charles Rotka was a committed grassroots politician who served his first tenure diligently and was re-elected for a second term as Fier Federal Ward Ex-Officio II. His dedication, loyalty, and selfless service to the party and his community will be deeply missed.

The ward also mourns the loss of its immediate past Youth Leader, Nendang Mundung’ah of Murum-Kadyis Unit, whose contributions to youth mobilization and party development remain invaluable.

Builder Raphael Rume described their deaths as a great loss, not only to the APC in Fier Federal Ward but to the entire Pankshin North constituency.

He prayed that God Almighty grants comfort and strength to the bereaved families during this difficult time and offers eternal rest to the souls of the departed.

2027: ASAMA DECLARES FOR CONTINUITY, CALLS FOR CONSOLIDATION OF GAINS IN BASSA/JOS NORTH

The Member representing Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency at the National Assembly, Daniel Asama Ago, has formally declared his intention to seek re-election in 2027, setting the tone for what is fast becoming a defining conversation around continuity, consolidation, and sustained progress within the constituency.

The declaration, which followed extensive consultations with party stalwarts, ward executives, youth groups, women leaders, and key stakeholders across Jos North and Bassa Local Government Areas, has been widely received as a strategic and forward-looking decision anchored on deepening the gains already recorded.

Speaking during the engagements, Hon. Asama emphasized that his decision to recontest is driven not by personal ambition, but by a collective desire to consolidate ongoing efforts and expand the scope of development across the constituency.

“Representation is a journey, not a one-off event. The foundation we have laid together must be strengthened to deliver even greater dividends for our people,” he noted.

Political observers and constituents alike have pointed to the significant advantages of continuity, particularly within the legislative environment. With one term almost completed, Hon. Asama is positioned to transition into a ranking member in the National Assembly an elevation that comes with increased influence, stronger negotiating power, and greater access to leadership roles, including the possibility of heading strategic committees.

Such positions are critical in shaping national policies and attracting federal presence to constituencies. For Bassa/Jos North, this means more opportunities for infrastructure development, youth empowerment programs, and community-focused interventions.

Stakeholders have also highlighted the importance of experience in governance, noting that effective lawmaking and constituency representation require time to build relationships, understand institutional processes, and deliver measurable impact. Re-electing a tested and experienced legislator, they argue, ensures that the constituency does not lose momentum at a crucial stage of progress.

Across the wards and communities, there is a growing sense of wise acceptability regarding the call for continuity. Many constituents view the 2027 decision as one that goes beyond politics, but rather speaks to the long-term development trajectory of Bassa/Jos North.

“Starting afresh at this stage would mean resetting valuable progress. What we need now is to build on what has already been achieved,” a community stakeholder remarked.

Hon. Asama’s declaration is therefore being seen not just as a political move, but as a call to action urging constituents to embrace stability, strengthen collaboration, and work collectively toward a more prosperous future.

As the 2027 general elections approach, the message resonating across Bassa/Jos North is clear: continuity is not just about returning a representative; it is about securing a future of greater opportunities, stronger representation, and lasting impact.

Signed:

Media & Communications Team

Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency