The Gassol II chapter of the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) Youth Forum has called for the retention of the Local Government Chairmanship seat in Gassol I district.
The appeal, which was formally addressed to the Governor of Taraba State, key stakeholders, and PDP leaders across the state, was jointly signed by Muhammad Usman Isah (Chairman) and Ezekiel Dadas (Secretary) of the forum and 48 others. It highlighted the group’s commitment to party loyalty while emphasizing the importance of equity and strategic political zoning.
According to the statement, the current political structure in Gassol LGA already favors Gassol II with the position of Commissioner in the State Executive Council, and for the sake of fairness, it is only logical that the Chairmanship remains with Gassol I.
“We write to you as committed party loyalists and stakeholders from Gassol II (Mutum Biyu) in Gassol Local Government Area, with deep respect for your leadership and continued efforts in promoting peace, unity, and development within our party and across the state,” the statement read.
The group recalled previous power-sharing arrangements in the local government where both the Chairmanship and Commissioner positions were held by individuals from Gassol I, a setup that was balanced at the time by the fact that the then Deputy Governor hailed from Gassol II. This, they say, underscores the tradition of rotational leadership in the area, which fosters harmony and reduces political tension.
They warned that any move to alter the current balance by relocating the Chairmanship to Gassol II — despite the zone already producing the Commissioner — may result in discontent, political rivalry, and a weakened support base for the PDP in future elections.
“Retaining the Chairmanship in Gassol I is not only a matter of fairness but a critical path to PDP’s electoral victory in the forthcoming elections,” the group noted.
The youth forum stressed their unwavering support for the PDP and the administration of Governor Agbu Kefas, but cautioned that such support is built on the foundation of justice and inclusivity.
They concluded by appealing to the governor and all party stakeholders to respect the principle of zoning and ensure that political appointments and elective positions reflect the diversity and collective interests of all communities within Gassol LGA.
“We trust in your wisdom and proven record of fairness, and we remain hopeful that this appeal will be given the urgent and favourable consideration it deserves for the good of our party, our people, and the peace of Gassol Local Government Area,” the letter concluded.
The Gassol II PDP Youth Forum’s intervention adds to the ongoing conversation around zoning and power rotation in Taraba State, a practice that has helped maintain political stability in the multi-ethnic and multi-district state. Political watchers say how the party responds to this latest appeal may impact its fortunes in the 2025 local government polls.
