By Rafiyat Sadiq
Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Plateau State, Hon. Rufus Bature, has publicly expressed interest in a ministerial appointment, declaring himself qualified to replace former Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Disaster Management and Social Development, Prof. Nentawe Goshwe Yilwatda, who was recently named National Chairman of the APC.
Speaking with journalists at the party’s state secretariat in Jos on Wednesday, Bature said the decision rests solely with President Bola Tinubu but noted he would gladly accept the role if considered worthy.
“Appointing a minister is at the discretion of President Bola Tinubu,” Bature said. “If he finds me worthy to be one of his cabinet members, I will gladly accept because I am ably qualified.”
Commenting on Prof. Yilwatda’s elevation to National Chairman of the APC, Bature described it as a significant development for the state.
He said the appointment was in line with the party’s constitution and followed due consultation and assessment of suitable candidates.
READ ALSO: APC Appoints Yilwatda As National Chairman
“When the former National Chairman, Abdullahi Ganduje, resigned, the party had to fill the position,” he explained. “After a thorough search and process, the President nominated Prof. Yilwatda, and the National Executive Committee ratified it.”
Bature said the appointment of a Plateau native to lead the ruling party has enhanced the state’s political standing and should translate into greater benefits ahead of the 2027 general elections.
He recalled that the last Plateau indigene to serve as national chairman of a ruling party was the late Chief Solomon Lar and expressed optimism that Yilwatda’s leadership would strengthen the party’s influence in the state.
“We are happy because the image of Plateau State has been bolstered,” Bature said. “All we need now is for the new chairman to complement our electoral strength as we prepare for the 2027 elections.”
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
