Yusuf Gagdi, a powerful federal lawmaker from Plateau State, has lost his party's ticket. The House Navy Committee chairman was defeated in the APC primary for Pankshin/Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency.
John Tongshinen emerged victorious in the direct primary held across three local government areas. Results announced Sunday in Pankshin showed a decisive margin between the two candidates.
According to returning officer Monday Daspan, Tongshinen polled 29,968 votes. Gagdi managed only 5,849 votes in the contest.
"By the powers conferred on me as chairman of this committee, I declare Dr John Tongshinen winner," Daspan announced. He based the declaration on official records available to the electoral panel.
INEC officials and security personnel monitored the entire exercise. The primary process ran smoothly across all voting locations.
Gagdi's loss marks a stunning reversal for the influential legislator. His defeat has sent shockwaves through Plateau's political establishment.
