D. M Long’gul
The political tremors currently shaking the Plateau State APC following Commander Yilchini Jan Bida’s entry into the race are a clear sign that the status quo is no longer sufficient.
For too long, Plateau has been caught in a cycle of reactive governance, particularly regarding the persistent security breaches that continue to claim lives and displace communities.
The fact that President Tinubu is reportedly engaging stakeholders so swiftly suggests that the center recognizes a need for a shift in strategy. Bida’s background as a retired Navy Commander offers more than just a resume; it offers the promise of a “security-first” doctrine—a disciplined, tactical approach to governance that prioritizes the protection of lives as the foundational requirement for any meaningful development.
Furthermore, looking for an alternative to Governor Caleb Mutfwang is not merely about party politics, but about the urgent need for a “stewardship” model over a “ruling” one. While the current administration has made efforts in infrastructure, the recurring curfews and security council meetings highlight a struggle to move beyond crisis management. Bida’s “LIGHTS” movement represents a vision of transparency and accountability that aims to bridge the gap between the government and the grassroots.
Plateau requires a leader who views the diverse ethnic and religious tapestry of the state not as a political hurdle to be managed, but as a strategic asset to be unified under a banner of absolute order and mutual respect.
Ultimately, the choice of Commander Bida represents a bold leap toward professionalized leadership at a time when Plateau is at a crossroads.
The state cannot afford another term of “business as usual” while its borders remain porous and its internal peace remains fragile in the hands of the current administration. By embracing a candidate with proven military precision and a fresh developmental manifesto, the APC has an opportunity to offer the people of Plateau a leader who is prepared to be the “first and last line of defense.” It is time to move beyond the rhetoric of ” The Time is Now” and embrace a future defined by the stability, light, and unwavering security that a seasoned veteran like Yilchini Jan Bida is uniquely equipped to provide.
Dakwom Long’gul writes this from Jos Plateau State.
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