A massive turnout of supporters was recorded on Saturday, May 2, 2026, as Hon. Ziphion Terkop Chrysanthus flagged off his campaign in Pankshin Local Government Area ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Hon. Ziphion, who is contesting for the House of Representatives seat to represent Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam Federal Constituency under the All Progressives Congress (APC), received overwhelming support from constituents, stakeholders, and various community groups who gathered in large numbers for the rally.
Addressing the crowd, the aspirant described the event as a reflection of collective strength and unity, pledging to provide leadership rooted in service and grassroots engagement.
“Today’s event demonstrates our collective strength and resolve to use strong leadership as a springboard for service and greater impact. I stand before you not with grand promises alone, but with a deep sense of duty to our constituency and our nation,” he said.
He emphasized that leadership must go beyond occupying positions, noting that “leadership must listen and leadership must act,” while stressing that his ambition is driven by the desire to ensure that the voices of farmers, traders, youths, and women are represented and acted upon at the National Assembly.
Hon. Ziphion further called on eligible voters to obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs), describing it as a critical tool for participation in the 2027 elections.
“Their right is their voter’s card. I enjoin every Nigerian to make it a duty to get registered so they can take part in the decisions ahead,” he stated.
Reiterating his commitment to a people-oriented approach, he promised to maintain regular interaction with constituents and allow them to determine priority projects.
“My agenda is the agenda of the people. I will ensure constant engagement so that the needs of my constituents guide every decision and project,” he added.
Speaking on zoning arrangements within the constituency, the APC aspirant noted that after rotating among the three local government areas for 12 years, the seat has now returned to Pankshin. He expressed confidence that the spirit of fairness would earn him support across Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam.
In a show of solidarity, representatives from Kanam and Kanke pledged their support, urging him to remain connected to the grassroots if elected. A community representative from Kanam emphasized the need for inclusive leadership and regular visits to constituents to better understand their needs.
“He should not remain in Abuja alone but come home often to feel the pulse of the people. That is the only way he can truly serve,” the representative said.
Community leaders and youths from Gagdi Ward in Kanam Local Government Area also backed the aspirant, citing respect for existing zoning arrangements as a key reason for their support. They called for fairness and continuity in the political structure, while highlighting pressing developmental challenges such as lack of schools, teachers, and basic infrastructure in their communities.
“We are supporting him because of the zoning agreement and the need for progress. Our communities lack basic educational facilities, and we believe this is an opportunity for change,” a youth representative said.
Other interest groups, including persons with disabilities, raised concerns about limited access to education and financial support, while the Association of Good Women and Widows appealed for improved security, empowerment opportunities, and greater inclusion in governance.
Responding to the concerns, Hon. Ziphion assured women and widows of his commitment to addressing their challenges, offering words of encouragement and promising targeted interventions.
“I have great plans for women and widows. Many do not fully understand your struggles, but with time and by God’s grace, we will work to support and uplift you,” he said.
The rally also featured cultural displays, traditional dance performances, songs of support and a portrait presentation, reflecting the enthusiasm and backing the aspirant enjoys across the constituency.
The event marks a significant step in the build-up to the 2027 elections, with stakeholders expressing optimism about increased political participation and representation in the constituency.
Former Plateau State Governor and elder statesman, Senator Jonah David Jang, has voiced strong opposition to proposals that would allow Hausa/Fulani residents in Plateau State to obtain indigene certificates, describing the issue as one with far-reaching implications for the state’s cultural heritage, identity, and indigenous rights. Jang made his position known while addressing ongoing debates surrounding citizenship, residency, and indigeneity, topics that have remained at the center of political and social discussions in Plateau State for decades.
According to the former governor, indigene certificates are historically linked to communities and ethnic groups recognized as the original inhabitants of Plateau State and should not be granted solely on the basis of long-term residence. He argued that while every Nigerian has the constitutional right to live and conduct lawful activities anywhere in the country, such rights should not automatically translate into indigene status, which he said carries unique cultural and historical significance.
Jang further maintained that preserving the distinction between residents and indigenes is necessary to protect the interests, heritage, and political representation of indigenous communities. He warned that altering the existing framework could create tensions and undermine the rights of groups that have historically been recognized as native to the state. The former governor emphasized the need for careful consideration of any policy changes relating to indigene certificates to avoid unintended consequences.
The comments have since generated mixed reactions among stakeholders across the state and beyond. While supporters of Jang’s position argue that protecting indigenous identity is essential for maintaining social and cultural balance, others contend that individuals who have lived in Plateau for generations should be afforded broader recognition and inclusion. The debate continues to spark conversations on the broader issues of citizenship, belonging, and equal opportunities within Nigeria’s diverse society.
Nigerian thrower Vincent Ugwoke produced one of the most significant performances in Nigerian field event history, launching a massive personal best of 63.89 metres to claim the bronze medal in the men’s discus throw at the NCAA Outdoor Track and Field Championships.
Sports247 reports that the outstanding effort not only secured Ugwoke a place on the podium but also elevated him into the history books, recording the furthest discus throw by a Nigerian athlete since 2004.
Competing against one of the strongest collegiate fields in the world, Ugwoke delivered when it mattered most, producing a career-best mark to earn his first NCAA medal and underline his growing status among Nigeria’s elite field athletes.
The event was won by Jamaican star Ralford Mullings, who captured gold with a throw of 65.81m, while compatriot Racquil Broderick secured silver with a personal best of 64.15m. Ugwoke’s 63.89m throw completed the podium and ensured Nigeria was represented among the medal winners.
Beyond the medal itself, the significance of the performance lies in its historical context. Nigerian athletics has traditionally been known for its success in sprinting and jumping events, making Ugwoke’s achievement particularly noteworthy.
His mark stands as the best by a Nigerian discus thrower in more than two decades, highlighting both the quality of his performance and its importance for the development of field events in the country.
The bronze medal also caps an impressive season of progress for the Nigerian, whose steady improvement culminated in a breakthrough performance on one of collegiate athletics’ biggest stages.
Delivering a personal best under championship pressure is a testament to both his preparation and competitive mindset.
For Nigerian athletics, Ugwoke’s achievement serves as a reminder of the growing depth of talent emerging across different disciplines.
His success could provide inspiration for a new generation of throwers looking to make their mark nationally and internationally.
With a personal best, an NCAA bronze medal, and a place in the record books now secured, Vincent Ugwoke leaves the championships having achieved a truly memorable milestone.
His 63.89m throw will be remembered as one of the finest Nigerian discus performances of the modern era and a significant moment in the resurgence of Nigerian field events.
