By SN24.com 
By Peter Akpah.
Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam, Plateau State – Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Babayo Gagdi has called for an end to identity politics in the Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam Federal Constituency, stressing that unity must take precedence over ethnic divisions as the 2026/2027 political season approaches.
The two-term lawmaker made the remarks on day three of his consultative tour ahead of the All Progressives Congress primaries. He addressed supporters in Jhar, Kunkyam, Namaram, Gwamlar, and Gumshar wards, where he spoke against growing ethnic sentiment in the constituency’s political space.
Gagdi’s comments come amid reports that some political actors are attempting to deepen divisions between the Jhar and Boggom ethnic groups. He said such tactics only distract from the real issues of development and representation that matter to the people.
Addressing the crowds, the lawmaker argued that his legislative track record should outweigh questions of ancestry. He cited the upgrade of the Federal College of Education, Pankshin, to a university and the execution of multiple rural water projects as evidence of his commitment to PKK.
“I am not here merely to campaign; my work for the people speaks for itself,” Gagdi said. “If you have a representative who facilitated the Federal University of Education and provided clean water through numerous boreholes, why seek a replacement? Do not let anyone tell you I am not your son, for your true son is the one who brings development to your doorstep.”
He condemned the use of religion and ethnicity as campaign tools, describing them as trivial distractions that hinder progress. Gagdi challenged his opponents to focus on credentials and verifiable impact rather than tribal affiliation.
“They are campaigning on the basis of ethnicity, but I will not descend to that,” he stated. “If a politician has held a position of power and cannot count the opportunities they have created for our people, they do not deserve your vote. If they have a record of service, let them show it. If not, I ask you to support our proven credentials.”
Reflecting on his background, Gagdi said his political philosophy is rooted in community development. He described himself as a “son of a poor man whom God has favored to serve,” adding that his journey fuels his commitment to policies that benefit all constituents.
In his closing remarks, Gagdi was unequivocal: “Ethnic politics have no place in Kanam. The Boggom and the Jhar are one and the same. Tell them that is the message from Gagdi.”