by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP), North Central Zone, successfully held its Zonal Congress in Jos, Plateau State, culminating in the election of new party officials – ushering-in Mohammed Abdulrahman as the National Vice Chairman to lead the zone into future political contests.
The congress, which was widely acknowledged as peaceful and transparent, saw most of the new executives emerging unopposed, in full compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act, while voting and counting were duly observed in all positions.
The congress was held at the Langfield Leisure Park, Jos. The occasion attracted key stakeholders from across the North Central region, including former Senate Presidents, past and serving Governors, National and State Assembly members, former Ministers, and other party stalwarts.
Prominent among the newly elected officials were Abdulrahman Mohammed (National Vice Chairman, North Central), Orogu Francis (Zonal Secretary), and Ndagana Alhasan (Zonal Youth Leader), among others.
In his acceptance speech, Abdulrahman Mohammed expressed gratitude for the confidence reposed in him and pledged to reposition the PDP for greater electoral success in the North Central zone.
He described the zone as a stronghold of the party and called on members to rally behind the new leadership to return the party to its winning ways.
He commended the Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for his leadership and the enabling environment provided for a smooth, peaceful, and credible congress.
The Plateau Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, while congratulating the newly elected executives, charged them to immediately set to work and unite the party across the zone.
“We want to congratulate all those elected today, whether by contest or consensus. Special appreciation goes to the electoral committee, led by Dr. Kabiru Tenimu Turaki, SAN, and the local organizing committee headed by distinguished Senator Napoleon Bali, AVM (rtd), along with the Plateau State chapter of the PDP.
“Today’s congress was peaceful and successful. It clearly shows that the PDP in the North Central is alive and vibrant. We have shown that we are peace-loving, united, and committed to the ideals of the party,” Mutfwang stated.
While acknowledging thosem, who stepped down, in the spirit of party unity, the governor said, “Your sacrifices will not be forgotten,” and urged the newly elected executive to hit the ground running, reconcile differences, and build a strong, united front ahead of the 2027 elections. Be assured of our continuous support in nurturing the party to meet the aspirations of Nigerians,” the governor stated.
Speaking earlier, the immediate past Vice Chairman of the North Central Zone, Hon. Theophilus Dakas Shan, and Chairman of the Congress Local Organizing Committee, Senator Napoleon Bali, called on party faithful to return to their respective states with renewed determination to reclaim political leadership, come 2027.
Our correspondent reports that, delegates to the congress were drawn from the North Central states of Plateau, Nasarawa, Benue, Niger, Kwara, Kogi, and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja).
The PDP’s successfully congress in Jos, the Plateau State capital, is seen as a significant milestone in the party’s preparation for the National Convention.
The Elders Forum expressed their appreciation to His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, His Excellency Bukola Saraki, His Excellency Tanimu Turaki electoral Chairman, State Party Chairmen, LOC Committee, and other notable party leaders and delegates, who participated in the Congress.
The forum acknowledged the efforts of party stakeholders in promoting democratic ideals and fostering a spirit of inclusivity within the party and the immediate past zonal excos, led by Hon. Theophilus Daka Shan.
The forum highlighted the importance of the congress as a platform for dialogue, strategy formulation, and electing new members.
The Elder Forum’s statement also called for ongoing support for party initiatives and collaboration among members to ensure that the PDP remains a formidable force in Nigerian politics.
They urged party leaders to prioritize grassroots engagement and to work diligently towards the upcoming electoral challenges, emphasizing the critical role of unity and collective action in achieving success.
Chief Raymond Dabo
Chairman, PDP Elder Forum.
25.05.2025