By Ehis Agbon, 14 February, 2025.
Pankshin, Plateau State – In a rare display of political maturity and commitment to public interest, the Honourable Member representing Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam Federal Constituency, Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, has demonstrated exceptional leadership in navigating a recent controversy surrounding the construction of the Gunji-Shiwer-Dokpai road.
The controversy, which centered on jurisdictional concerns regarding the road’s construction, was diffused when Hon. Gagdi made the strategic decision to step back and allow the Plateau State government to take over the project. His action underscores his respect for governance structures and his prioritization of the community’s welfare above political or personal interests.
A Decision Rooted in Maturity and Collaboration
Hon. Gagdi’s decision to instruct his contractors to withdraw from the construction site was met with mixed reactions initially. However, his transparent communication about the rationale behind the move soon garnered widespread commendation.
“In leadership, sometimes stepping aside is the best way to move forward. The state government has the authority and resources to complete this project, and my role is to support and complement their efforts, not compete with them,” Hon. Gagdi stated during a briefing.
By prioritizing cooperation over conflict, the lawmaker exemplified how political actors can foster development without allowing disagreements to escalate into full-blown disputes.
Refocusing Resources for Greater Community Impact
Beyond the immediate decision to vacate the construction site, Hon. Gagdi has indicated plans to reallocate resources to address other pressing needs within his constituency. His commitment to identifying alternative initiatives highlights a governance style that balances vision with practical service delivery.
“We have other equally important areas that require attention, and our work does not stop here. The community’s needs remain our top priority,” he said.
This redirection of resources aligns with Hon. Gagdi’s broader development agenda, which has consistently emphasized community welfare, infrastructure development, and youth empowerment.
A Model for Peaceful Governance
At a time when political disagreements often lead to tension and gridlock, Hon. Gagdi’s response to the road construction dispute stands as a testament to the power of peaceful dialogue and institutional respect.
Political analyst, Mr. Timothy Davou, praised the move, saying, “Hon. Gagdi’s approach is a lesson in governance. He demonstrated that leadership is not just about pushing one’s agenda but about knowing when to step back for the collective good.”
Similarly, community leaders from Gunji and Shiwer communities have expressed optimism about the project’s future and confidence in the lawmaker’s continued support for developmental initiatives in the area.
Community Reactions and Commendations
Residents of the affected communities have lauded Hon. Gagdi’s decision, describing it as a reflection of his genuine commitment to public service.
“We are confident that with the state government taking over, the road will be completed. We also trust Hon. Gagdi to continue his efforts in other areas,” said Mrs. Amina Luka, a resident of Dokpai.
Youth leader, Mr. Solomon Zakari, added, “This is the kind of leadership we need—people who put the community first rather than fight for political recognition.”
Looking Ahead
With the Plateau State government now fully in charge of the Gunji-Shiwer-Dokpai road project, residents are hopeful that the long-awaited infrastructure improvement will soon materialize. Meanwhile, Hon. Gagdi remains steadfast in his commitment to supporting initiatives that uplift the constituency’s socio-economic landscape.
His handling of the controversy serves as a reminder that governance, when approached with humility, dialogue, and a focus on public good, can yield outcomes that transcend political divides.
As Plateau State continues its developmental efforts, Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi’s actions will likely be remembered as a case study in constructive leadership—one where stepping aside became a powerful step forward.
