Businessman Kefas Wungak Ropshik, popularly known as Kefiano, has secured the governorship ticket of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau state for the 2027 general elections. He emerged victorious in the party's primary election held on Tuesday, May 26, 2026, garnering 19,938 votes to defeat three other aspirants.
Ropshik's Victory and Acceptance Speech
The primary election involved delegates and party members from all 17 local government areas of Plateau state. In his acceptance speech, Ropshik expressed gratitude to party leaders, supporters, delegates, and residents for their backing. He described the victory as a collective effort toward building a more secure, prosperous, and united Plateau state. Ropshik stated: 'I accept this mandate with gratitude to God Almighty, whose grace has sustained this journey from Garram in Kanke to this moment.'
He reiterated his 'Plateau First' philosophy, emphasizing that his ambition is rooted in service, inclusiveness, responsible governance, and sustainable development. His administration, if elected, would prioritize security, economic development, youth empowerment, investment growth, transparent governance, and social inclusion.
Single-Term Pledge
In a significant move, Ropshik announced that he intends to serve only one four-year term if elected governor. He explained that this decision aligns with the state's zoning arrangement and promotes political stability. According to The Punch, Ropshik said: 'Keeping in line with the existing zoning agreement that promotes peace, stability, and unity in Plateau state, I intend to spend just four years in government.'
Call for Unity
The gubernatorial hopeful urged other contestants and party members to work together ahead of the February 2027 governorship election. He stressed the need for unity across ethnic, religious, and political lines. Ropshik is the founder of Kefiano Group and Kefiano Autos, and he is known for his business acumen.
Background and Context
Earlier reports indicated that FCT Minister Nyesom Wike had called on the PDP to respect court judgments regarding the party's national convention. Wike warned that disobeying court orders could endanger the party's future, emphasizing that personal interests should not destroy a political platform that has existed since 1998. Ropshik's emergence comes amid efforts to resolve the prolonged crisis within the PDP.
Ridwan Adeola Yusuf, a Current Affairs Editor at Legit.ng with over nine years of experience covering Nigerian politics, reported this story. He holds a Higher National Diploma in Mass Communication from the Polytechnic Ibadan and has previously worked at Africa Check.
