Member representing Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam Federal Constituency, Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, has defended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu against claims that his administration is pushing Nigeria toward a one-party state.
Speaking during a media parley with journalists, bloggers and content creators at his Rayfield residence in Jos, Gagdi said recent defections into the All Progressives Congress (APC) were voluntary and in line with constitutional provisions.
“The Constitution guarantees freedom of association. Nobody is forced to join APC. If people are coming into the party, it is because they believe in what the party represents. That is democracy at work,” he said.
Gagdi also used the opportunity to highlight his legislative record and constituency projects, insisting that his performance in office justifies his mandate.
He cited his role in sponsoring and facilitating key legislation, including the repeal and reenactment of the Police Act 2020, which he said introduced community policing and reforms in law enforcement.
The lawmaker further pointed to the upgrade of the Federal College of Education, Pankshin, to the Federal University of Education, describing it as a milestone that has expanded access to higher education and created employment opportunities.
“If I come back to my people and say I contributed to establishing universities, reforming the police system and creating opportunities for Nigerians, I believe I have justified the mandate given to me as a lawmaker,” he said.
On infrastructure, Gagdi listed projects across Pankshin, Kanke and Kanam, including roads, bridges and empowerment programmes.
He also claimed to have personally funded several road projects within Pankshin metropolis and other parts of the constituency, in addition to constructing bridges to improve access in rural communities.
According to him, thousands of constituents have benefited from empowerment programmes, including the distribution of motorcycles, farming equipment and food items, as well as employment opportunities facilitated in federal agencies.
Gagdi dismissed claims that his second term has been inactive, describing such assertions as politically motivated and not reflective of realities on the ground.
He also addressed internal political developments in Plateau State, saying recent alignments within the APC should be seen as part of democratic evolution rather than a threat to party structure.
“You cannot have two leaders speaking in different directions. I respect the leadership structure of the party, and that is why I am more measured now, not because I have lost my voice,” he said.
However, some political observers have raised concerns over increasing defections to the APC, warning that the trend could weaken opposition parties and affect democratic competition.
Gagdi reaffirmed his commitment to his constituents and the APC, expressing confidence that his performance would continue to earn public support.
He added that while criticism is part of democracy, the electorate would ultimately judge his record based on visible impact and service delivery.