The All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State is intensifying efforts to secure leadership control of the State Assembly, currently led by Speaker Gabriel Dewan of the Young Progress Party (YPP). Despite holding 22 out of 24 seats, the APC has faced challenges in asserting its majority following a court ruling that ousted Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) lawmakers and paved the way for APC members to assume their positions.
The Speaker, a lone YPP member, emerged as the Assembly’s leader after the court’s decision, a development that has sparked criticism from APC stakeholders. They argue that it is undemocratic for a minority party to lead a House dominated by the APC.
In an interview, the Plateau State APC Chairman, Honourable Rufus Bature, described the situation as an aberration, emphasizing that the majority should naturally lead. “In a democracy, the majority will always have their way, and the minority their say. With 22 APC members, one YPP member, and one Labour Party member, it is undemocratic for the YPP to preside over the House. The Speaker should either resign or be voted out through legitimate means,” he stated.
Bature clarified that the party is not advocating for disorder or violence but is pushing for a democratic resolution. He also noted that the current leadership arrangement violates the state’s zoning principles, as both the Governor and the Speaker hail from the same senatorial district.
Responding to the calls for a leadership change, Honourable Matthew Kwarpo, Chairman of the House Committee on Information, acknowledged the APC’s concerns but urged patience. He explained that the current leadership structure resulted from court judgments and stressed the need for a gradual and peaceful transition.
“The APC chairman has made a clarion call for the leadership to reflect the majority party. However, discussions are ongoing at the party level. The House remains coordinated, and we believe the APC will assume leadership at the right time,” Kwarpo said.
He highlighted the importance of avoiding rushed or destabilizing actions, citing examples of political crises in other states. “The Speaker himself has acknowledged that he will eventually step aside for the majority party. We are committed to ensuring a smooth and amicable transition that prioritizes peace and stability in the state,” he added.
Kwarpo emphasized that while a leadership change could happen swiftly, the Assembly members are focused on maintaining order and delivering on their constituencies’ needs. “The 23 members in the House are mature and reasonable. They understand that change is inevitable, but it must occur at the right time and in the right manner,” he concluded.
