2027: PDP Southern Taraba Senatorial Candidate Jesse Ashumate Promises Inclusive Representation, Good Governance.

By Jako Keke,  July 14, 2026.

The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) candidate for Southern Taraba Senatorial District in the 2027 general elections, Dr. Jesse Adi Ashumate, has pledged to champion equity, inclusive development and accountable leadership if elected to represent the district in the National Assembly.

Speaking in an interview with journalists in Jalingo, Dr. Ashumate said his decision to contest the Senate seat was driven by a desire to address what he described as years of unequal development and inadequate representation in Southern Taraba.

He argued that ethnic divisions and unequal distribution of opportunities have slowed the socio-economic progress of the zone, stressing that his administration would promote fairness and ensure that all communities benefit from democratic dividends.

The PDP senatorial candidate acknowledged the contributions of previous lawmakers who represented the district but maintained that more needed to be done to meet the aspirations of the people through quality representation and people-oriented legislation.

Dr. Ashumate criticised what he described as ineffective empowerment programmes, noting that distributing vehicles to individuals without the financial capacity to maintain them does not create lasting economic benefits.

According to him, sustainable empowerment should focus on providing citizens with the skills, resources and opportunities required to become self-reliant and improve their livelihoods.

Highlighting his experience in public service, the former Commissioner for Finance said he facilitated the execution of several development projects across communities in Southern Taraba during his tenure. He also disclosed that his interventions had helped secure employment for more than 200 people who are currently working in various organisations.

He expressed concern over what he termed the under-representation of the senatorial district, saying the people deserve a representative with sound educational qualifications, legislative knowledge and the capacity to effectively articulate their interests at the National Assembly.

The PDP flag bearer assured constituents that if elected, he would run an open and transparent office by regularly rendering account of his stewardship and ensuring equitable distribution of projects and resources across all ethnic groups in the district.

Dr. Ashumate further promised to prioritise programmes that would empower women, youths and vulnerable groups, improve access to quality education and healthcare, and create opportunities for economic growth across the zone.

On the affairs of the Peoples Democratic Party, the senatorial hopeful called on members to remain united ahead of the 2027 elections. He urged eligible supporters to register and obtain their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) to enable them participate in the electoral process.

He expressed confidence that the internal challenges within the PDP had been resolved, adding that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had recognised and uploaded the party's candidates on its portal ahead of the 2027 general elections.

Dr. Ashumate also appealed to the electorate to vote based on competence, integrity and performance, urging them to reject leaders who have failed to deliver on their mandates and support candidates capable of providing effective representation and sustainable development for Taraba State.