The All Progressives Congress (APC), Plateau State Chapter, has conducted a peaceful and well-attended State Congress, returned former chairman, Hon. Rufus Bature and other members of the State Executive Committee (EXCO) through a consensus arrangement.
The congress, held on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Langfield Events Centre, brought together delegates from the 17 Local Government Areas of Plateau State.
Chairman of the State Congress Committee, Mr. Oscar Oyebo, presented the list of consensus candidates, which was unanimously adopted by delegates through a voice vote.
Addressing party faithful at the event, Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, commended delegates for the orderly and peaceful conduct of the exercise, describing it as historic and a reflection of the party’s internal cohesion and maturity.
Governor Mutfwang emphasized unity, tolerance, and reconciliation as key pillars for strengthening the party ahead of the 2027 general elections. Describing the APC as a “family,” he urged members not to allow internal disagreements to weaken the party’s structure and collective aspirations.
While acknowledging that “a few T’s need to be crossed and I’s dotted,” the governor assured members that outstanding concerns would be resolved amicably in the overall interest of the party. He congratulated the re-elected State Chairman, Hon. Rufus Bature, and other EXCO members, stressing the need for unwavering loyalty to the party, the President, and the people of Plateau State.
As part of efforts to reposition the party, Mutfwang announced a one-month statewide membership drive, encouraging each registered member to recruit at least ten new members. He also called for active participation in the party’s e-membership registration initiative, noting that electoral victories depend on a strong grassroots base and broad voter engagement.
On preparations for the 2027 elections, the governor said the party was intentionally building what he described as a “Plateau People’s Party,” positioning it as a formidable platform for advancing the collective interests of citizens. He expressed confidence that the APC would approach the 2027 polls united and stronger.
Governor Mutfwang further cautioned party members, particularly youths, against using social media to spread divisive narratives. He urged political maturity in handling grievances and apologized to anyone who may have felt sidelined during the congress process, assuring them of greater inclusion going forward.
In his acceptance speech, Hon. Rufus Bature thanked party leaders and delegates for the renewed confidence reposed in him and his team. He described his re-election as both an honour and a significant responsibility, pledging to work diligently to meet members’ expectations across the state.
Bature highlighted achievements recorded under his previous leadership, including the election of three Senators, 23 members of the State House of Assembly, eight members of the House of Representatives, 17 Local Government Chairmen, and 325 Councillors on the APC platform.
He assured members proactive the party leadership would remain in providing constructive oversight and support to ensure accountability and sustained electoral success.
The congress was observed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), with party officials submitting the required oath forms for validation. The exercise was widely regarded as peaceful and transparent, underscoring the party’s commitment to internal democracy.
The successful conduct of the State Congress marks a significant step in consolidating the APC’s structures across Plateau State as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
