…..The Need for Unity:
The Plateau State chapter of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) is at a pivotal moment, and recent developments involving former lawmaker Dachung Musa Bagos have raised legitimate concerns among party members and stakeholders. While healthy debate and differing strategies are part of any political organisation, actions that risk fracturing the party’s cohesion must be carefully examined and addressed with urgency.
Credible sources within the PDP indicate that Bagos’s recent manoeuvres have sown discord, with many questioning whether his efforts align with the party’s broader interests. Some perceive his actions as a direct challenge to the political influence of former Governor Jonah Jang, a key figure in Plateau politics. Others suggest that Bagos may be part of a calculated effort by certain elements within Governor Mutfwang’s inner circle to reshape the party’s power dynamics, particularly by diminishing Jang’s stronghold in the northern zone, where his support has historically been decisive.
The last local government elections exposed the risks of such divisive tactics. In Jos South, PDP stakeholders had already agreed on a consensus candidate for the chairmanship position. Yet, Bagos reportedly disregarded this collective decision, instead backing his aide in the primaries. Despite significant resources deployed in support of his preferred candidate, the party’s consensus choice prevailed—a clear indication that unilateral actions cannot override the majority’s will.
This episode raises serious questions: If party leaders cannot trust one another to honour agreements, how can they present a united front to voters? And if such behaviour goes unchecked, will it encourage others to pursue personal ambitions at the expense of party discipline?
Governor Caleb Mutfwang must remain vigilant. While political evolution is natural, any attempt to dismantle existing structures without a clear, unifying alternative could backfire. Reports suggest that Bagos and his backers are pushing the Governor to distance himself from Jang’s political network ahead of 2027. However, history has shown that fragmentation weakens, rather than strengthens, a party’s electoral prospects.
Party members have voiced their frustrations, seeing Bagos’s actions as self-serving rather than party-building. As one executive member noted, “This isn’t about progress—it’s a power play that risks dividing us when we need unity most.”
The PDP’s strength lies in its collective purpose. If internal divisions are allowed to fester, the party risks losing its competitive edge in Plateau politics. Stakeholders are right to demand accountability and a reaffirmation of shared goals.
Governor Mutfwang has an opportunity to demonstrate decisive leadership by ensuring that all party members work toward cohesion, not conflict. The time to act is now—before personal ambitions erode the trust and discipline that keep the PDP strong.
As party chieftain Izang Peter rightly stated, “The Plateau PDP must take decisive steps to maintain its unity and stability.” The party’s future and success in upcoming elections depend on it.
