In a riveting interview with Viewpoint Nigeria, Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, the representative of Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam Federal Constituency, laid out an ambitious vision for his second term in office, igniting a political firestorm that is certain to ruffle the feathers of Plateau State’s opposition party. As Gagdi marks his one-year anniversary in office with a world press conference on June 13th in Pankshin, he confidently highlights his achievements and future plans, drawing a stark contrast between his efforts and those of the state government.
Gagdi’s infrastructural accomplishments speak volumes. He proudly announced the construction of a 51km road linking Kanam and Bauchi state, a project awarded 4 billion Naira through the Ministry of Defense, with contractors already making significant progress. Additionally, he has championed the drilling of over 300 boreholes across polling units, with 70 currently non-functional due to challenges that an evaluation team is actively addressing. He assured that the borehole project in Kanke will be completed within the next six months.
In the realm of healthcare, Gagdi has launched a comprehensive medical outreach program for his constituency, ensuring that residents receive diagnoses and treatments, with referrals to specialist hospitals covered by his office. Infrastructure in Pankshin has seen notable improvements as well, with the construction of the Gumdi-Shuwer road in Kanke LGA halfway completed, and over 20 km of roads and local market facilities developed in Pankshin town. Drainage systems within Pankshin have also been enhanced, demonstrating Gagdi’s commitment to addressing local needs.
On December 22nd of last year, Gagdi empowered at least two constituents per polling unit in Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam, showcasing his dedication to community development. However, his most provocative statement came when he declared, “In my one year in office, I have not seen any state government project in Pankshin Kanke Kanam.” This bold assertion throws down the gauntlet to the opposition party, questioning the governor’s commitment to his own constituency.
“How can a federal legislator’s projects in one year surpass those of the governor in his own constituency?” Gagdi asked pointedly, a statement bound to stir intense debate and scrutiny.
Addressing the contentious issue of political tenure, Gagdi dismissed the gentleman’s agreement of one term per individual, proudly asserting his second-term victory in PKK and announcing his intention to run for a third term in 2027, signaling his readiness for political battles ahead.
Gagdi’s statements and actions set the stage for a dramatic showdown with the state government, as his bold initiatives and confrontational rhetoric demand accountability and tangible progress for Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam. The political landscape in Plateau State is poised for a turbulent yet potentially transformative period, as Gagdi’s leadership challenges the status quo and calls for heightened responsibility from the opposition.
