A coalition of youths from the Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam (PKK) Federal Constituency in Plateau State has firmly rejected any move to retain the House of Representatives seat in Kanam Local Government Area ahead of the 2027 general elections, insisting on strict adherence to the existing zoning arrangement.
The position was made known today April 17, 2026, following a massive bi-partisan youth rally held in Pankshin. The rally drew a large crowd of stakeholders and youths who displayed placards advocating equity, fairness, and justice in political representation.
Operating under the Coalition of Pankshin-Kanke Native Youth, the Communiqué, titled “The Pankshin Declaration,” signed by Rotshak Golmut on behalf of the Communiqué Drafting Committee, stated that gathering became necessary to safeguard the long-standing rotational system among the three local government areas—Pankshin, Kanke, and Kanam—which has historically ensured balance and unity within the constituency.
The youths expressed concern that Kanam LGA, which currently occupies the seat, has already benefited from extended representation. According to them, allowing Kanam to continue beyond 2027 would disrupt the established balance and undermine fairness, as it would result in a disproportionate share of representation compared to Pankshin and Kanke.
They warned that any attempt by political parties or interest groups to sidestep the zoning arrangement could trigger serious political consequences, including withdrawal of support and active opposition during the elections.
Reaffirming their stance, the coalition declared that the zoning principle remains “non-negotiable,” stressing that the House of Representatives seat must rotate to either Pankshin or Kanke in 2027 to preserve equity and peaceful coexistence.
The group also called on political parties to zone their tickets accordingly, urging them to present candidates from the two eligible local government areas. They further emphasized that only aspirants with proven competence, integrity, and youth-focused agendas would earn their support.
As part of efforts to strengthen civic participation, the youths encouraged eligible voters across the constituency to update their details through the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) Continuous Voter Registration process.
In a message to youths in Kanam, the coalition appealed for understanding and cooperation in upholding the zoning tradition for the sake of unity, warning that failure to respect the arrangement could deepen divisions within the constituency.
The communiqué concluded with a call on political stakeholders, traditional and religious leaders, and all residents to embrace fairness and justice in order to sustain peace and collective progress in the PKK Federal Constituency.
