19/07/2025
REJOINDER TO A BASELESS AND MALICIOUS OPEN LETTER: A REBUKE TO FACELESS “APC CONCERNED YOUTHS” OF WASE AND KANAM
I read with deep concern, but not surprise, the so-called “open letter” circulating on social media and credited to a group styling itself as APC Concerned Youths of Wase and Kanam Local Governments. Let me be clear and unequivocal from the outset: the said write-up is faceless, divisive, mischievous, and clearly not the position of any known organ, leadership, or legitimate forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Wase or Kanam. It is the handiwork of political merchants who seek to exploit humanitarian pain for political gain.
Ordinarily, I would have ignored such a desperate and pedestrian blackmail, but for the deliberate attempt to drag my name and that of our respected Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Hon. Nentawe Yilwatda, into a fabricated narrative of betrayal and neglect. This rejoinder serves to put the records straight and expose the lies for what they truly are—dangerous propaganda clothed in ethnic undertones and political manipulation.
FACTS, NOT FABRICATIONS
As the elected Member representing Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, and as a son of Kanam, I am the most directly affected by the persistent attacks in parts of Garga District, particularly Kukawa and its neighboring villages. It is, therefore, illogical and dishonorable for anyone to suggest that I would sit idly while my people suffer. My heart bleeds daily with every report of loss. I have visited these communities repeatedly in the past and continue to provide both legislative and personal interventions, including raising the matter on the floor of the National Assembly. The records are there.
However, the current nature of the killings and kidnappings in Kanam—especially Garga axis—is unlike other crises in Plateau State. It requires serious security clearance for any physical visit. This is precisely why my earlier scheduled joint visit with the Hon Minister, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, was suspended on security advice. Let it be known publicly: the Minister and I planned to visit together, not separately. Any attempt to cast him in a bad light is a direct insult to me, the people of Kanam, and to the truth itself.
FEDERAL INTERVENTION IS UNDERWAY
It is worthy of mention that as a direct outcome of my legislative motion on the floor of the House, the Federal Government has initiated necessary steps for humanitarian intervention in the affected areas. I am also aware of the detailed plans being quietly but diligently worked on by the Hon Minister and his Ministry. Relief materials and support packages are being arranged—not on social media—but through official channels in line with due process. No genuine leader politicizes disaster or rushes to the media to announce every plan.
We have held strategic meetings with security agencies and humanitarian bodies. No matter the noise from faceless writers, we will not announce our moves prematurely until they yield results. Governance is not driven by drama, but by diligence.
ON THE CHARACTER OF PROF. NENTAWE YILWATDA
Let me state without ambiguity: Prof. Hon. Nentawe Yilwatda is a son of Kanam, and we in Kanam APC are exceedingly proud of his achievements, integrity, and commitment to the state and the nation. His appointment as Minister was a blessing to our people, and no faceless group will be allowed to cast unwarranted aspersions on his reputation.
His response to the humanitarian needs across the country, including in Plateau, has been commendable. If he went to Riyom, it was because the security conditions permitted it. He would have done same in Garga if the same was guaranteed.
CRISIS HAS NO POLITICAL AFFILIATION
Contrary to the misleading claims in the letter, humanitarian crises do not recognize political parties, tribal sentiments, or electoral support. To attempt to turn a humanitarian tragedy into a political blame game is shameful, inhumane, and un-Islamic. The victims are not only APC members; they are human beings, and their pain should not be weaponized.
FINAL WORD
Let me advise those who wrote or sponsored the said letter: do not attempt to create problems where none exists. You cannot love Wase and Kanam more than those of us whose souls are tied to the soil. You do not speak for the APC, for its youth, or for its elders. You speak only for your political frustration and desperation, and that will not be rewarded with recognition.
To the general public and my constituents, rest assured: we are doing everything possible to bring relief to our people. The Federal Government is acting. The Hon Minister is committed. I, your humble servant, will never relent.
Signed,
Rt. Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, Ph.D, OON
Member, House of Representatives
Chairman, House Committee on Navy
Federal Republic of Nigeria
Hon Yusuf Adamu Gagdi
Prof Nentawe Yilwatda
