The Plateau State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has conducted a peaceful State Congress, re-electing Hon. Rufus Bature and other members of the State Executive Committee (EXCO) through consensus.
The congress took place on Tuesday, March 3, 2026, at Langfield Events Centre, with delegates from the 17 Local Government Areas of the state in attendance. The Chairman of the State Congress Committee, Mr. Oscar Oyebo, presented the list of consensus candidates, which was adopted by a voice vote.
Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang commended delegates for the orderly conduct of the exercise. He described the congress as historic and a sign of the party’s unity and maturity.
The Governor stressed the need for unity, tolerance, and reconciliation as the party prepares for the 2027 general elections. He referred to the APC as a “family” and urged members not to allow disagreements to weaken the party’s structure.
While acknowledging that “a few T’s need to be crossed and I’s dotted,” he assured members that any outstanding concerns would be resolved in the overall interest of the party. He also congratulated the re-elected chairman, Hon. Rufus Bature, and other EXCO members.
Governor Mutfwang announced a one-month statewide membership drive, encouraging each member to recruit at least ten new members. He also urged support for the party’s e-membership registration, noting that electoral success depends on strong grassroots mobilisation.
Speaking on the 2027 elections, the Governor said the APC is building what he described as a “Plateau People’s Party,” aimed at advancing the interests of citizens. He expressed confidence that the party would enter the elections united and strong.
He cautioned members, especially youths, against using social media to spread divisive messages. The Governor also apologized to anyone who felt sidelined during the congress and promised greater inclusion.
In his acceptance speech, Hon. Rufus Bature thanked party leaders and delegates for the renewed mandate. He described his re-election as both an honour and a responsibility to serve members faithfully.
Bature highlighted achievements recorded under his leadership, including the election of senators, members of the State House of Assembly, House of Representatives members, local government chairmen, and councillors under the APC platform.
The congress was observed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), and required documents were submitted for validation. The exercise was widely seen as peaceful and transparent, marking a key step in strengthening the APC ahead of 2027.
