Youth groups from Pankshin and Kanke Local Government Areas of Plateau State have insisted on the retention of the existing zoning arrangement for the Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency, rejecting what they described as attempts to extend the current tenure of representation beyond 2027.
Operating under the Coalition of Pankshin-Kanke Native Youths, the group declared that the rotational formula guiding representation in the constituency remains “non-negotiable,” stressing that the seat should rotate to either Pankshin or Kanke LGAs at the end of the current tenure.
In a communiqué signed by its coordinator, Roshak Golmut, the coalition argued that by 2027, Kanam Local Government Area would have held the seat for a cumulative period of 12 years, compared to eight years each for Pankshin and Kanke.
The group warned that any attempt to retain the seat in Kanam beyond the established rotation could undermine fairness, disrupt political balance, and trigger discontent within the constituency.
It noted that the zoning arrangement, in place since 1999, has helped to ensure inclusiveness and reduce political tension among the three LGAs.
Providing a historical breakdown, the coalition said Hon. Josiah Yunana Gobum from Kanke represented the constituency between 1999 and 2003, followed by Rev. Musa Labar Wuyep from Kanam, who served from 2003 to 2007. He was succeeded by Hon. Leonard Dilkon of Pankshin, who held office until 2011, while Dr. Timothy Golu of Kanke represented the constituency from 2011 to 2019.
The current lawmaker, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi from Kanam LGA, is serving his second term.
The coalition cautioned political parties and other stakeholders against actions that could undermine the zoning structure, warning that it would mobilise against candidates or parties that fail to respect the rotational arrangement.
“This is not a threat but a commitment to fairness, justice and the preservation of unity within the constituency,” the group said.
It also urged eligible voters, particularly young people, to participate in the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Continuous Voter Registration in preparation for the 2027 general elections.
While acknowledging the constitutional rights of individuals to seek elective office, the coalition advised political parties to zone their tickets to candidates from Pankshin and Kanke LGAs.
The group further called on traditional and religious leaders to support the zoning arrangement in the interest of peace and sustained harmony in the constituency.
