BLDR Raphael Rume Congratulates Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda on Emergence as APC National Chairman

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and House of Assembly aspirant for Pankshin North, Builder Raphael Rume, has congratulated Professor Nentawe Yilwatda on his emergence as the National Chairman of the ruling party.

In a statement, Rume described Prof. Yilwatda’s emergence as well-deserved, noting that his track record of leadership, integrity, and administrative competence positions him to reposition the party for greater success.

He commended the APC leadership and delegates for what he termed a transparent and peaceful process, expressing confidence that the new chairman would foster unity, strengthen internal democracy, and consolidate the party’s achievements across the country.

Rume further praised Prof. Yilwatda as a visionary leader and achiever whose wealth of experience would bring renewed energy to the party’s structure and operations.

He urged party members to rally behind the new leadership to ensure sustained progress and electoral victories in future contests.

The APC stalwart also reaffirmed his commitment to the ideals of the party, pledging continued support toward building a stronger and more inclusive APC.

APC NATIONAL CONVENTION: Jan Bida calls for unity, party loyalty ahead of key decisions

A chieftain of the All Progressives Congress (APC) and gubernatorial aspirant in Plateau State, Commander Yilchini Jan Bida (rtd), has extended warm felicitations to party leaders, delegates and members as the ruling party convenes its national convention, urging unity and collective resolve.

In a goodwill message to party faithful, Jan Bida described the convention as a defining moment for the APC to demonstrate internal cohesion and democratic strength. He acknowledged the differing opinions and consultations that preceded the gathering, noting that such engagements reflect the vibrancy of a progressive political platform.

“Divergent views and robust discussions are the hallmark of a healthy party,” he stated, stressing that the priority remains the collective interest of the party and the Nigerian people.

The APC stalwart commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the leadership of the convention committee for what he termed “wise and steady guidance,” while expressing confidence in the delegates to carry out their responsibilities with integrity and a sense of duty.

He further urged members to use the convention as an opportunity to project the APC as a united and formidable political force, capable of sustaining electoral success and governance stability.

Reaffirming his commitment to the party and the people of Plateau State, Jan Bida said the focus beyond the convention should remain on consolidating gains and pursuing victory in future political engagements.

The APC national convention is expected to shape key party decisions and reinforce its strategic direction ahead of upcoming electoral cycles.

HUMANITARIAN OUTREACH Bishop Mamza donates wheelchairs, reinforces Church support for vulnerable patients

YOLA — The Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese, Most Rev. Stephen Dami Mamza, has paid a pastoral and humanitarian visit to Fortland Orthopaedic Hospital in Jimeta-Yola, where he donated wheelchairs to support patients with mobility challenges.

The visit to the facility, located along Galadima Aminu Way, underscored the Diocese’s sustained commitment to healthcare support and care for vulnerable groups in Adamawa State.

During the engagement, Bishop Mamza interacted with medical staff and patients, offering encouragement and prayers while reaffirming the Church’s solidarity with the sick and physically challenged. The visit also served to strengthen collaboration between the Diocese and healthcare providers in the region.

The Bishop was received by a consultant at the hospital, Dr. Fashe, who commended the Diocese for its continued advocacy and assistance to patients in need.

A key highlight of the visit was the formal presentation of a consignment of wheelchairs aimed at improving mobility and access to rehabilitation services for patients. The donation was facilitated through the Knights of Columbus, an international Catholic charitable organisation.

The gesture forms part of the Global Wheelchair Mission, a humanitarian initiative involving the Knights of Columbus, the American Wheelchair Mission and the Canadian Wheelchair Foundation. Since its inception in 2003, the programme has distributed over 100,000 wheelchairs globally to children, adults living with disabilities, the elderly and other vulnerable populations.

Healthcare providers at the facility said the donation would significantly enhance patient care and boost the hospital’s capacity to serve underserved communities across the state.

Bishop Mamza noted that the outreach reflects the Church’s enduring commitment to promoting human dignity, expanding access to healthcare and providing practical support to those in need.

The visit marks another milestone in the Diocese’s faith-driven humanitarian efforts aimed at improving lives and restoring hope among vulnerable groups.

Bishop Mamza Donates Laptops, IT Equipment to Empower Deaf Community in Yola

In a major step toward advancing digital inclusion and economic empowerment for persons with disabilities, the Catholic Diocese of Yola has donated six laptops and essential information technology equipment to the Catholic Deaf Community (CDC) of the diocese.

The presentation, which took place at the Catholic Secretariat in Yola, was presided over by the Bishop of Yola Diocese, Most Rev. Stephen Dami Mamza. The items were received by the leadership of the Catholic Deaf Community, led by its Vice President, Miss Chidimma, alongside the Chief Interpreter. Also present was the Coordinator of the Justice, Development and Peace Commission (JDPC), Rev. Fr. Maurice Kwairanga.

Speaking at the event, Miss Chidimma expressed gratitude on behalf of the community, describing the donation as timely and transformative. She noted that members of the CDC were overwhelmed with joy, adding that the equipment would significantly improve access to education, enhance employability, and promote self-reliance among deaf individuals.

Bishop Mamza, in his remarks, said the initiative forms part of the Church’s commitment to inclusive development, ensuring that no member of society is left behind in the fast-evolving digital age. He emphasized that providing technological tools for the deaf community is crucial in equipping them with relevant skills needed to compete in today’s workforce.

He further explained that the laptops would support a series of structured training programmes tailored to the learning needs of deaf persons, with emphasis on visual communication and practical engagement.

According to the CDC leadership, plans are already underway to commence digital literacy programmes, including basic and intermediate computer training as well as introductory courses in programming. The community also intends to expand into vocational and creative skills such as tailoring, fashion design, and digital arts to provide alternative sources of livelihood.

The donated equipment is also expected to facilitate the use of interactive and AI-driven learning platforms designed to enhance accessibility and bridge educational gaps faced by deaf learners.

The gesture by the Diocese of Yola underscores its broader mission of promoting dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for persons with disabilities, in line with global development goals.

Stakeholders say the intervention will not only empower beneficiaries with critical digital skills but also position them for greater participation in economic and social development.

Plateau 2027—Defections, Old Rivalries and New Calculations Shape the Governorship Race

(WALBE OGAK)

Despite the enduring advantages of incumbency, the road to the 2027 Plateau State governorship election is already taking shape in unexpected ways, with a mix of loyalty, defection, and strategic positioning redefining the political landscape.

At the center of the equation is Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who now appears firmly aligned with the All Progressives Congress (APC) following his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). His position was further strengthened by a public endorsement from the APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, who signaled support for Mutfwang as the party’s standard-bearer in 2027.

Yet, beneath this apparent consolidation, a trio of influential political actors—Commander Yilchini Jan-Bida (rtd), Dr. Danyaro Dakon Sarpiya, and Brigadier General John Sura (rtd)—are keeping the contest alive through sustained grassroots mobilization and strategic recalibration.

Jan-Bida, a known ally and strong supporter of Professor Yilwatda, remains within the APC fold. His recent conferment of the “Malam Bit” traditional title in Pankshin has further elevated his local standing, while his backers continue to frame him as a disciplined and viable alternative within the ruling party. His continued presence in the APC suggests a calculated attempt to retain influence from within, even as the party leadership publicly rallies behind the incumbent.

In contrast, Dr. Danyaro Dakon Sarpiya has altered his political trajectory. Having previously contested the APC governorship primaries alongside Yilwatda, Sarpiya has now defected to the PDP. His renewed ambition, declared in December 2025, has been accompanied by the rollout of a manifesto and a deliberate grassroots push across Mangu, Ampang West, and several other local government areas—an indication that he is seeking to rebuild political capital outside the APC’s internal hierarchy.

Brigadier General John Sura (rtd) presents yet another layer of complexity. A former PDP governorship aspirant who contested the primaries with Mutfwang, Sura has again shifted political allegiance, this time to the African Democratic Congress (ADC). Notably, Sura was once a strong supporter of Governor Mutfwang, and his military background played a significant role during the general elections. As a key figure in field operations, he was instrumental in safeguarding votes in several areas, helping to protect the electoral process from manipulation. Despite this past alliance, he has maintained political relevance through town-hall engagements and security-focused rallies, leveraging his experience to appeal to voters concerned with stability and governance.

What, then, explains the confidence of these aspirants in the face of a seemingly settled party endorsement?

Political analysts argue that the answer lies in the fluidity of party structures and the unfinished nature of pre-election calculations. Within the APC, Yilwatda’s endorsement of Mutfwang is widely viewed as strategic signaling rather than a definitive closure of the race, as the party continues to grapple with zoning debates, legacy interests, and the influence of competing blocs, including those aligned with former Governor Simon Lalong.

Equally significant are the personal political networks each aspirant commands. Jan-Bida draws from military and veteran constituencies, Sarpiya from grassroots structures, and Sura from security-oriented and community outreach platforms. These networks, while distinct, represent pockets of influence that could prove decisive should internal party dynamics shift.

Moreover, Plateau’s recent political history—marked by defections, legal disputes, and shifting alliances—has reinforced a central reality: no candidacy is secure until formal party processes and electoral timelines are concluded. In such an environment, early mobilization is not merely symbolic but strategic.

Ultimately, the emerging picture is one of cautious ambition. While Governor Mutfwang may enjoy institutional backing for now, his potential challengers are betting on the unpredictability of political alignments, the resilience of their support bases, and the possibility that today’s assurances may give way to tomorrow’s negotiations.

As 2027 approaches, Plateau’s governorship race is shaping up less as a settled contest and more as a dynamic political chessboard—where influence, timing, and loyalty will determine the final outcome.

BLDR. Raphael Rume Felicitates with Gov. Mutfwang @62

Bldr. Raphael Rume, an aspirant for the Pankshin North State House of Assembly seat, has extended warm felicitations to the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, on the occasion of his 62nd birthday.

In a goodwill message, Rume joined millions of Plateau citizens in celebrating the governor’s life, describing him as a visionary leader whose commitment to good governance, justice, and inclusive development continues to inspire hope across the state.

He commended Governor Mutfwang for his determination to reposition Plateau State through people-oriented policies and the restoration of peace, noting that the governor’s leadership under the “Time is Now” agenda has renewed confidence among citizens and strengthened the democratic process.

A Call for Democratic Fairness and Party Unity in Plateau APC- Hon. Alphonsus Komsol

As political activities gradually intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, conversations around internal democracy within political parties are beginning to take centre stage in Plateau State. One of such voices calling for fairness and openness in the process is that of Hon. Komsol Alphonsus Longgap, a former member of the House of Representatives and an aspirant for the Plateau South Senatorial Zone under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement made available to party stakeholders and the public, Hon. Longgap commended the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for what he described as the governor’s commitment to peace, development and inclusive governance in the state. According to him, the administration has demonstrated a strong determination to strengthen democratic institutions and ensure that the dividends of democracy reach the people across various communities.

The former lawmaker noted that many citizens remain appreciative of the efforts being made to reposition Plateau State for stability and growth. However, he emphasized that as members of a political party that believes in democratic values, the APC must continue to uphold fairness and internal participation in its decision-making processes.

Hon. Longgap expressed confidence in the governor’s leadership and sense of fairness, stating that he believes the state leadership will resist pressures from certain interests advocating for the adoption of a consensus arrangement in the party’s forthcoming primaries. Instead, he argued that all aspirants should be given equal opportunity to present themselves before party delegates and electorates.

According to him, democracy thrives where participation is encouraged, where merit is allowed to prevail, and where the will of the people is respected. He recalled that the respect for the people’s mandate was evident during the 2023 elections, which produced the current leadership in the state.

The Plateau South senatorial aspirant further noted that the people of Plateau State are politically conscious and capable of identifying leaders who have consistently worked for their welfare both at the grassroots and urban levels. He stressed that individuals with credible records of service should not shy away from democratic contests but rather present their track records and allow voters to make informed choices.

Political competition, he said, when conducted transparently and fairly, strengthens party structures and deepens public confidence in democratic governance.

Hon. Longgap therefore called for a level playing field for all aspirants in the party’s forthcoming primaries, maintaining that every contender should be allowed to present their ideas, vision and achievements before the party’s electorates.

He also cautioned against any attempt by individuals or groups to pressure the state leadership into adopting arrangements that could undermine the democratic process. Such actions, he warned, could inadvertently weaken public confidence in the leadership and the progress already recorded in the state.

Describing his appeal as one made in the interest of Plateau South Senatorial Zone and the state at large, Longgap stressed that fairness, transparency and participation must remain the foundation upon which the future of the party is built.

The former federal lawmaker also acknowledged the role of the national leadership of the APC, commending the party’s National Chairman for promoting internal reforms aimed at strengthening the party across the country.

He further extended appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, whom he described as the national leader of the party, for his continued support and respect for the people of Plateau State. According to him, the President’s leadership at the national level continues to reinforce democratic governance across Nigeria.

Hon. Longgap concluded by encouraging the Plateau State government to remain committed to listening to the voices of the people, noting that public trust in governance is best sustained when citizens are given the opportunity to freely express their choices through democratic processes.

For observers of Plateau politics, the call highlights the growing emphasis on internal party democracy as political actors begin positioning themselves ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.