APC, PDP, ADC jostle for Plateau mandate

In less than a year to the 2027 governorship election in Plateau State, political activities are gathering momentum as major parties position themselves for what promises to be a keenly contested race.

Going by the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the governorship election is scheduled for February 2027. With this in view, political actors and parties have intensified preparations across the state.

In Plateau, three political parties have emerged as the dominant forces shaping the contest: the All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

In effect, the 2027 race in the state appears to rest on a tripod of these three parties, which stand out among others for their structure, visibility, and political influence.

ADC: rising from the margins

Among the three, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) is relatively new on the political scene in Plateau. The party had little or no impact during the 2023 general elections. However, its fortunes began to change in 2025 following a coalition of opposition forces that gave it greater national relevance.

Since then, the ADC has repositioned itself as a potential contender in future elections, including the 2027 governorship race in Plateau.

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A key figure boosting the party’s profile is Solomon Dalung, a former Minister of Sports from Langtang North Local Government Area. His national influence is seen as a major advantage for the party in the state.

At the state level, the party is led by Hannatu Gagara, a grassroots mobiliser with strong influence among women. She insists that the ADC is not new to Nigeria’s political landscape and is steadily building the capacity to challenge for power.

According to her, the party is positioning itself to take over the state beginning in 2027.

PDP: battling decline after resurgence

The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) remains a major player in Plateau politics, having governed both the state and the country for 16 years. The party returned to power in the state in 2023 with the election of Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

However, its grip on power has weakened significantly in recent times, largely due to defections of key members to the APC. Observers say the party is currently struggling to maintain its structure and influence across the state.

Despite these challenges, the PDP remains strong, drawing on its legacy and longstanding political networks.

One of its enduring pillars is David Jonah Jang, a former governor and influential figure within the party. His political weight is seen as crucial in stabilising the PDP and possibly reclaiming lost ground, especially if the APC fails to manage its expanding membership.

APC: strength in numbers, risk of division

The All Progressives Congress (APC) has experienced rapid growth in Plateau, transforming from an opposition party into the dominant political force in the state.

A major turning point came in July 2025, when Nentawe Yilwatda emerged as the party’s national chairman. His leadership has strengthened the party’s structure and boosted its appeal.

The APC’s rise has been further reinforced by a wave of defections from other parties. The most significant of these was the defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang from the PDP to the APC in December 2025, a move widely seen as cementing the party’s dominance ahead of 2027.

With Mutfwang expected to seek a second term on the APC platform, the party’s chances of retaining power appear strong.

However, this rapid expansion also presents a challenge. The influx of political heavyweights has created internal competition, raising concerns about possible divisions, particularly after party primaries.

Many of the defectors are believed to be seeking elective positions. If they fail to secure tickets, there are fears they may return to their former parties, potentially weakening the APC from within.

The road to 2027

While the APC appears to have the upper hand, both the PDP and ADC remain significant forces capable of mounting strong challenges.

However, the two opposition parties face their own hurdles, particularly in meeting constitutional requirements related to party congresses. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is already at odds with both parties over compliance issues.

Their ability to resolve these challenges will be crucial to their effectiveness in the 2027 election.

As the race unfolds, Plateau State is shaping up to be a battleground where internal party dynamics, alliances and organisational strength will ultimately determine who secures the mandate of the people.