From Christiana Gokyo, Jos
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State has adopted Hon. Sunday Garba Biggs as its consensus governorship candidate for the 2027 general election.
The affirmation took place during the party’s governorship primary congress held on Thursday at Sarau Event Centre, behind NTA Jos, where party delegates and stakeholders unanimously endorsed Biggs through a consensus arrangement.
Chairman of the PDP Electoral Committee for the Plateau governorship primary, Barrister Mark Jacob, described the gathering as one of the most organised and peaceful PDP meetings he had ever witnessed.
According to him, party members conducted themselves in an orderly and disciplined manner, unlike what he described as practices in some other political parties where crowds are allegedly hired to fill venues.
“This is one of the best PDP gatherings I have witnessed. People are seated calmly, organised and composed.
“Unlike some political parties that borrow crowds from motor parks just to fill halls, PDP members are genuine party faithful,” he said.
Barr. Jacob also stated that the exit of some politicians from the PDP had created opportunities for loyal members of the party to grow politically.
“We do not want to continue recycling people who have failed in different positions. When some people were leaving the PDP, I celebrated because it created opportunities for others to rise,” he added.
He, however, urged returning members to rejoin the party peacefully and follow due process.
“They are free to return home, but they must join the queue. They cannot come back and take over positions already occupied by loyal members who remained with the party,” he stressed.
The electoral committee chairman further said the national leadership of the “authentic PDP,” backed by the Board of Trustees (BOT), had received and accepted records of consensus endorsements from the 17 local government areas of Plateau State.
He criticised what he called inflated political figures by rival parties, insisting that the PDP deals with “real people and real figures.”
“When a political party claims to have eight million members nationwide but presents questionable election figures, Nigerians begin to ask questions. PDP believes in transparency and credibility,” he stated.
During the congress, a motion for the adoption of Sunday Garba Biggs as the PDP consensus governorship candidate was moved by Alex Ford Stephen and seconded by Mr. Gomos from Barlum Ward in Pankshin Local Government Area.
Following the affirmation, Barr. Jacob officially declared Biggs as the duly elected governorship candidate of the PDP in Plateau State for the 2027 election.
“Having satisfied the requirements of the law and having been adopted by consensus, Hon. Sunday Garba Biggs is hereby declared and returned as the governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party in Plateau State,” he announced.
The PDP flag was subsequently handed over to Biggs on behalf of the party’s national leadership.
Earlier, Plateau State PDP Chairman, Chief Raymond Dabo, commended party members for embracing consensus and unity, describing Biggs as a seasoned technocrat who had served under three governors and possessed the experience needed to lead the state.
He expressed optimism that the PDP would reclaim political dominance in Plateau State ahead of the 2027 elections.
“If elections are conducted today, PDP will win the three senatorial seats and retain most of the House of Representatives seats in the state,” Dabo declared.
He urged party members to remain prayerful, united and committed to mobilising support for the party’s success.
In his acceptance speech, Hon. Sunday Garba Biggs thanked party leaders, stakeholders and delegates across the 17 local government areas for the confidence reposed in him.
According to him, the consensus affirmation symbolises unity, sacrifice and collective responsibility.
“Today is not about personal victory. It is a triumph of unity, dialogue and shared purpose. It is a signal that our party is united and prepared to offer Plateau State purposeful leadership and a brighter future,” he said.
Biggs also acknowledged the importance of zoning in Plateau politics and pledged to serve only a single four-year term if elected governor, in order to sustain the state’s power rotation arrangement.
He promised to pursue policies that would promote peace, economic growth, youth empowerment, women inclusion, improved healthcare, education and infrastructural development.
“Our mission is to build a Plateau that is peaceful, prosperous, united and inclusive. We shall create opportunities for youths, empower women, support farmers and businesses, and ensure justice and fairness for all citizens,” he stated.
The PDP governorship candidate further pledged to lead with integrity, accountability and compassion, while calling on all citizens and political actors to work together for the progress of Plateau State.
He urged party supporters to remain peaceful, focused and committed as the party prepares for the next phase of the political journey toward 2027.
