2027: ADC candidate dismisses power of incumbency in Plateau guber race

The Plateau State governorship candidate of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), General John Sura (rtd), has said incumbency will not determine the outcome of the 2027 governorship election, arguing that candidates’ performance and pedigree will be the deciding factors.

Sura spoke with journalists ahead of the unveiling of his running mate in Jos, Plateau State, saying Governor Caleb Mutfwang would have to account for his performance in office over the past three and a half years to justify a second term.

He said candidates seeking to succeed Mutfwang, including himself, would present their plans to the electorate and explain how they intend to change the state’s current situation.

He said: “The incumbent will have to show his scorecard, what he has done for the people of Plateau State. And I’m going to tell the Plateau people what I plan to do. The governor has been tested. What has he done in transportation, agricultural sector and infrastructural development in the state. Do he must give account of his stewardship?

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“What has he done with the N410 billion he has recieved so far? What infrastructure is put in place? And I’m also going to tell the people of Plateau State what I have planned for the first 100 days, the first year in office, and the second year, and by the grace of God, we are going to be very deliberate, workaholic, intentional toward the people, and very empathic.”

He added: “We are not afraid of the power of incumbency; additionally, the house of the incumbent is divided and filled with discordant tunes. We in ADC have our plans on how to transform the state and are ready to pursue them to logical conclusion if elected in 2027.”

The ADC candidate described his running mate, Mrs Chundung Kele, as a grassroots mobilizer who had contributed to the political and economic development of Plateau State. He also described her as a frontliner and a meticulous politician.

Speaking at the unveiling ceremony, the party’s state chairman, Hon. Dung Dewan, described the event as an important step in its preparations for the 2027 governorship election.

Dewan said the party planned to build its political strength around ordinary citizens, maintaining that its structure was rooted in grassroots support rather than financial influence or political imposition.

He said: “We are here to tell the Plateau people that a new beginning is possible, and it has arrived.

“Our structure is not in a secret room; it is the people of Plateau State.”

He expressed hope that the unveiling would strengthen the party’s mobilisation efforts and encourage members to work together ahead of the election.