After APC Primary Victory: Why PKK Must Rally Behind Gagdi for Greater Gains

By Golok Nanmwa | Jos

Fresh from his victory in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election, Hon. Yusuf Gagdi has again emerged as the party’s standard bearer for the Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam (PKK) Federal Constituency, setting the stage for what stakeholders describe as a crucial phase ahead of the general election.

His return as candidate has been widely interpreted as a renewed vote of confidence in his leadership, grassroots engagement, and record of constituency projects across Plateau State.

Renewed mandate and grassroots support

Across PKK, party members and community stakeholders are increasingly calling for unity behind Gagdi, describing his emergence as a reflection of sustained trust built over years of representation.

Political observers say the primary outcome signals more than internal party victory, but a consolidation of support rooted in perceived performance and visibility across communities.

Track record driving political backing

Support for Gagdi, according to constituents, is largely anchored on his developmental interventions in key sectors including education, infrastructure, healthcare, and empowerment programmes.

In education, interventions at institutions such as the Federal College of Education, Pankshin, alongside support for secondary and primary schools, have improved classroom infrastructure and learning conditions. Scholarships and examination support for students have also expanded access to higher education opportunities.

Infrastructure and rural development

Road rehabilitation and construction projects across the constituency have opened up rural communities previously cut off from economic centres, improving access to markets and easing transportation of goods.

Key road corridors such as Gungji–Shiwer–Dokpai and parts of Dengi–Kwalmiya–Gum–Gagdi–Wawus have been cited as major interventions that have boosted economic activity and mobility.

Rural electrification projects, including solar-powered streetlights, have also improved security and extended opportunities for night-time economic activities.

Water, health and social services

Access to clean water has improved through borehole projects and solar-powered water systems across several communities, easing daily burdens on residents.

In the health sector, upgrades and construction of primary healthcare centres have brought medical services closer to rural dwellers, while medical outreach programmes have provided free consultations and treatment services.

Empowerment and job creation

Gagdi’s empowerment initiatives have also featured prominently in stakeholder support, with thousands of youths and women reportedly trained in vocational skills and supported with starter packs to establish small businesses.

Agricultural support programmes involving fertilisers, seedlings, and equipment have further strengthened food production and rural livelihoods.

Legislative influence and representation

As a ranking member of the Nigerian House of Representatives and Chairman of the House Committee on Navy, Gagdi is regarded by supporters as having strategic influence in attracting federal projects and policy attention to his constituency.

Stakeholders argue that retaining experienced lawmakers in the National Assembly strengthens access to federal opportunities and development resources.

Call for unity ahead of 2027 elections

With the APC primary concluded, attention has shifted to the general election, with party leaders and community voices urging unity to consolidate gains.

Stakeholders warn that internal divisions could weaken the constituency’s development momentum and political influence.

They argue that rallying behind a single candidate will strengthen PKK’s collective bargaining power and sustain ongoing development projects.

Continuity and development concerns

Supporters also emphasise continuity as a key factor in development planning, noting that long-term projects require stability in representation to avoid disruption or abandonment.

They argue that sustaining ongoing initiatives would allow for consolidation and expansion of existing development efforts.

Constituents express expectations

Some residents who spoke expressed optimism about future development, calling for improved infrastructure, expanded electricity and water access, better healthcare delivery, and job creation.

“He has done well, and we will support him to excel in the forthcoming election,” said Rotji Aaron from Kanke LGA.

Another constituent, Mrs Lydia Tanko, said the message across PKK remains clear: consolidate gains, strengthen unity, and support continued development under Gagdi’s representation.