Margaret Inusa Yahaya has emerged as the governorship candidate of the Social Democratic Party in Plateau State ahead of the 2027 general elections.
She emerged through a consensus and affirmation process during the party’s governorship primary election held on Tuesday at the Tanjuriel Elite Stars Model Academy School Hall along Old Airport Road in Jos.
Party stakeholders, zonal leaders, supporters, and officials unanimously endorsed Yahaya following consultations and agreements reached across the party’s zonal congresses in the state.
Speaking with journalists after her emergence, Yahaya described her candidacy as a call to serve the people of Plateau State and not a contest based on gender.
According to her, leadership should be based on ability, competence, and the willingness to address the challenges facing the people.
She noted that this would be her second attempt at contesting for the governorship position, recalling that she previously contested in 2019.
“We are not talking about whether women can do better than men. It is about potential, ability, and the will to provide what the people need,” she said.
The SDP governorship candidate expressed concern over insecurity, killings, and economic hardship affecting communities across Plateau State, including Riyom, Barkin Ladi, Bassa, Mangu, Wase, and Bokkos local government areas.
She said her administration, if elected, would prioritise the welfare and security of the people under a “People First” agenda.
Yahaya also stressed the role of women in peacebuilding and governance, noting that women often bear the greater burden during crises and conflicts.
Describing herself as a pastor, mother, and ambassador for peace, she said her experience and compassion would guide her leadership style.
She called on residents of Plateau State to support the SDP, promising what she described as a new political direction for the state.
Also speaking, the Plateau State Chairman of the SDP, Zim Philip Jibi, described the party as a new dawn for the people of Plateau.
“Our message is simple and clear. Plateau people, there is a new dawn on the Plateau, and that new dawn is SDP,” he said.
