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Why Politicians Are Joining APC — Gagdi Explains

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“Why are leaders joining APC? Is it coercion? No,” declared Yusuf Adamu Babayo Gagdi, as he addressed journalists during a media parley held at his Jos residence on Saturday, offering a strong defence of the growing wave of defections into the ruling party.

The member representing Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Federal Constituency dismissed claims that the increasing number of politicians joining the All Progressives Congress (APC) is the result of pressure or political manipulation. Instead, he argued that the trend reflects confidence in the party’s governance and leadership.

According to Gagdi, the decision by governors and political leaders to align with the APC is a constitutional right rooted in freedom of association. He stressed that no individual, including the president, has the authority to prevent politicians from joining any party of their choice.

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“It will not be fair to accuse the president of forcing anyone to join APC. These are decisions taken freely within the provisions of the constitution,” he said.

Gagdi further rejected suggestions that Nigeria is drifting toward a one-party system, insisting that the existence of multiple political parties and the ability of individuals to switch affiliations demonstrate the strength of the country’s democracy.

Providing context for the defections, the lawmaker pointed to what he described as the visible impact of government policies under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He maintained that improvements in infrastructure, economic reforms and governance outcomes are influencing political actors to identify with the ruling party.

“Why are you not open to the fact that APC is doing well and that is why people want to join?” he asked, urging critics to consider performance as a driving factor rather than attributing defections to negative motives.

While acknowledging that not all Nigerians may agree with government policies, Gagdi emphasized that democracy allows for differing opinions, adding that support and opposition are both legitimate features of the political system.

Beyond the issue of party defections, the lawmaker used the engagement to encourage journalists to embrace investigative reporting, particularly in scrutinizing public finances and governance outcomes across states.

He also highlighted his legislative contributions, noting that he has sponsored 58 bills, with six already signed into law, alongside reforms to Nigeria’s policing framework and interventions in the education sector.

The interactive session, which brought together journalists, bloggers, publishers and content creators, was described by Gagdi as an open platform for dialogue rather than a political campaign, even as political activities begin to gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Gagdi maintained that public trust in leadership should be based on tangible results, insisting that policies—though sometimes difficult—are designed to deliver long-term benefits for Nigerians.

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Plateau North Youth Coalition Backs Prof. Chris Kwaja’s Senatorial Ambition, Cites Peacebuilding Experience and Inclusive Leadership

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The Coalition of Youths of Plateau North Senatorial District has formally endorsed Prof. Chris Kwaja for the Senate seat representing Plateau North Senatorial District, describing him as a visionary leader with the experience, integrity, and competence required to provide purposeful representation for the zone.

The endorsement, which took place on May 16, 2026, in Mista Ali (Mc Alley), Pengana Constituency of Bassa Local Government Area; the home constituency of Prof. Kwaja, brought together youths, stakeholders, and supporters from across the senatorial district. In a jointly signed letter and endorsement address, the coalition said its decision followed careful consideration of his leadership qualities and track record in peacebuilding, governance, youth empowerment, and community development.

Speaking during the event, the coalition praised Kwaja’s extensive local and international experience, noting his contributions in peace and security, governance, diplomacy, and policy development. The group highlighted his role as Country Director for Nigeria at the United States Institute of Peace (USIP), his previous service as Director-General of Research and Planning in Plateau State, his tenure as Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs, as well as his engagements with international institutions including the United Nations Human Rights Council.

The youths described him as “a global voice with deep local roots,” adding that his understanding of Plateau State’s social and political realities positioned him to effectively represent the interests of the people at the National Assembly.
The coalition also commended his consistent commitment to youth inclusion, peacebuilding, and inclusive governance, stressing that Plateau North requires a leader capable of bridging generational divides, strengthening unity, and advancing development across the district.

According to the coalition, Prof. Kwaja’s aspiration resonates deeply with the urgent need to break the cycle of poverty and exclusion in society. They noted that his message of leadership is rooted in the conviction that governance must actively dismantle structural poverty and expand opportunities for those at the margins, describing this as central to the motivation behind his political ambition.

In his remarks, Chris Kwaja said his aspiration is driven by a desire to give hope and representation to the less privileged and minority groups within society. He stated that he purchased the senatorial nomination form on behalf of ordinary people who often feel excluded from leadership, emphasizing that “one with God is a majority” and that everyone has the capacity to aspire and lead regardless of background.

He further urged young people, minorities, and all those who feel shut out of opportunity to hold each other up in the pursuit of change, stressing that transformation in society is not an individual journey but a collective responsibility. According to him, solidarity, mutual encouragement, and shared growth among such groups remain essential for building a more inclusive and just society.

Kwaja also challenged those present to reflect on the kind of society they desire and to begin contributing actively to positive change within their immediate communities and spheres of influence. He added that meaningful societal transformation requires collective responsibility and deliberate efforts from citizens at every level, reaffirming that his ambition is centered on improving the lives and opportunities of people across Plateau North Senatorial District.

Reflecting on his previous service in government, Kwaja recalled his time as Director-General of Research and Documentation and Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs under the administration of former Governor Jonah Jang. He expressed appreciation to Da Jonah Jang for the opportunity to serve Plateau State, noting that the experience provided him with a platform to apply his knowledge and expertise in governance and public service for the benefit of the people.

The senatorial hopeful further emphasized the need to involve more young people in governance and decision-making processes, stressing that the future belongs to the youth and that they must be given space to participate actively in shaping society. He also noted that individuals should not limit themselves based on their background, drawing attention to the idea that greatness can emerge from unexpected places. He referenced the biblical account of Jesus, where people questioned, “Is this not the son of the carpenter?”, yet He went on to perform great wonders and is recognized as the Messiah, carrying the message and purpose of God.

He added that victory is not merely about winning elections, but about ensuring that the voices of the people are not silenced. According to him, collective voices and shared civic engagement are what society needs to drive meaningful change and build a better future.

The event ended with a formal declaration of support by the Coalition of Youths of Plateau North Senatorial District, which reaffirmed its commitment to mobilizing support for Chris Kwaja’s senatorial bid under the vision slogan: “Voices – People! Voices! Mandate! Impact!”

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Beyond a Venue: Usiju World Events Centre Expands Event and Hospitality Services Across Plateau and Beyond

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One of the best event centre on the Plateau, Usiju World Events has called on the public to see the Company as more than just an event venue, highlighting its growing reputation as a full-service provider in the events and hospitality industry. According to the management, many people only associate the company with hosting events, without knowing that it also offers professional event planning, consultations, decorations, and catering services for both indoor and outdoor occasions.

The management explained that the company is focused on delivering complete event solutions designed to make celebrations, corporate gatherings, weddings, birthdays, concerts, and conferences more organised, memorable, and professionally executed. Usiju World Events noted that its services are tailored to meet the needs of clients seeking quality and convenience under one roof.

In addition to event management services, the organisation also provides rental and sales of event materials, including chairs, decoration items, and kitchen utensils used for different occasions. As part of efforts to improve customer satisfaction and service delivery, the company recently introduced new event products and materials imported from China to meet the increasing demands of clients.

Usiju World Events further encouraged residents and organisations to take advantage of its indoor and outdoor decoration services, catering solutions, and other event support services available at the centre. The management reaffirmed its commitment to creativity, professionalism, and excellence, promising to continue delivering quality hospitality and event services across Plateau State and beyond.

For bookings, consultations, rentals, decorations, catering services, and event support, visit Usiju World Events at Apollo Crescent, around Secretariat Junction, Jos or call 07030362200.

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