APC’s 2027 prospects in Plateau tied to zoning compliance — Group

A group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State has cautioned that the party’s chances in the 2027 general elections will depend largely on adherence to existing zoning arrangements across constituencies. In a statement signed by its convener, Amb. Paul Mengshak, the “Concerned Members of APC, Plateau State” said assumptions that recent political […]

A group within the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State has cautioned that the party’s chances in the 2027 general elections will depend largely on adherence to existing zoning arrangements across constituencies.

In a statement signed by its convener, Amb. Paul Mengshak, the “Concerned Members of APC, Plateau State” said assumptions that recent political alignments would automatically translate into electoral victory are “misplaced.”

“Plateau State is a multi-tribal society with a long-standing tradition of political zoning that predates the current democratic dispensation,” Mengshak said. “It is erroneous to assume that APC will win Plateau State simply because key political actors are now in the same party.”

The group stressed that zoning remains “non-negotiable,” particularly in constituencies with diverse ethnic and religious compositions, warning that disputes in one area could influence voter sentiment in others.

“The important factor for APC to win the 2027 election in Plateau State is when the zoning arrangement in the constituent components of the state is maintained,” the statement read. “Once confidence is lost in one constituency, it can spread to others.”

Citing Mikang Local Government Area as an example, the group raised concerns over representation dynamics and urged party leaders to carefully manage candidate selection in line with local expectations.

“Party leadership should ensure that decisions reflect established agreements and promote inclusivity,” Mengshak said.

The statement also addressed other federal constituencies, including Langtang North/South, Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam, and Mangu/Bokkos, urging respect for what it described as “understood zoning patterns” to avoid internal disagreements.

“In Langtang North and South, stakeholders believe the House of Representatives seat should rotate in line with existing arrangements,” the group noted. “Similarly, in other constituencies, adherence to zoning is key to party cohesion.”

On Plateau North Senatorial District, the group said ongoing discussions among various local governments highlight the need for consensus-building ahead of the elections.

“What Plateau needs now is unity of purpose and a commitment to arrangements that ensure fairness and balance,” Mengshak added.

The group called on party leaders at both the state and national levels to provide guidance that would strengthen internal harmony and improve the APC’s electoral prospects in the state.