Candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Congress (NDC) for Plateau North Senatorial District, Dr. Jonathan Musa Bature, in this exclusive interview, outlines his vision for improved security, youth employment, and equitable representation for all constituents.
What is your motivation for contesting the position of senator representing Plateau North Senatorial District in the murky waters of Nigerian politics?
First and foremost, I have witnessed the suffering of my people in the Plateau North Senatorial District. I have heard their cries arising from weak leadership, violence, kidnappings, and the instability that has troubled our land.
I am fully aware of their pain and sorrow. Therefore, I have come to serve them and to contribute to restoring stability, peace, and prosperity — a land where development is inclusive and sustainable.
As I reflected on these realities, I received what I believe was a clear divine direction from the Lord, saying, “Now go, for I am sending you to stand against those who oppress the people. When you bring the people out of bad governance, they will serve me in peace.”
This sense of calling has shaped my life and mission as an educator, administrator, security expert, politician, and proud son of Jos East, prepared for this defining moment in the history of Plateau State.
How prepared are you for this calling in terms of your roots, education, and public service?
I hail from Jos East, which is part of Plateau North. I was born in the 1960s. My life has been one of service to God, my community, and Nigeria.
My early education was in Plateau State. I attended secondary school in what is today known as Nasarawa State. I later gained admission into the University of Jos, where I earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.
I did not stop there. I returned to school and obtained a master’s degree in Law and Diplomacy, as well as Security and Intelligence, at the University of Lagos because leadership without knowledge is dangerous.
In public service, I started as an Education Officer Grade VIII with the Plateau State Ministry of Education, teaching English Language and Literature at GSS Gyel.
From there, I moved into development work. I consulted for MEDAL on the World Bank Water Supply Mapping Project for Plateau State.
I also worked briefly with BOBEC on revenue strategies for the Plateau State Water Board.
My passion for governance led me to the Plateau State Local Government Service Commission as an Administrative Officer I, where I rose to the position of Senior Administrative Officer.
I was later appointed Clerk of the Bokkos Local Government Legislative Council, where I served for three years with integrity.
My last place of public service was the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA), where I retired as Chief Security Officer in the Security Department.
At what point did you decide to venture into politics?
That was in 2003, when I contested for the Plateau State House of Assembly under the Alliance for Democracy (AD) after leaving the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) due to what I perceived as injustice.
Although I was not declared the winner, the experience strengthened my resolve and deepened my engagement with the people of Jos East.
Your desire to vie for a senatorial seat is a tall order. Did your senatorial ambition emerge suddenly?
Absolutely not.
I started politics at the grassroots level, first as a youth leader, then as a clerk, and later as a candidate for the Plateau State House of Assembly. For decades, I have worked with PDP governorship candidates on the Plateau.
I do not see this as a mere ambition but as a progression and a calling.
What is your record in community service, and how have you engaged with communities beyond Plateau State?
For me, service has no boundaries.
For instance, in Lagos, specifically in the Ikorodu-Gbogbo Baiyeku axis, the Igbo community honoured me with the chieftaincy title of Ohamadike of Gbogbo Baiyeku.
After extensive consultations with stakeholders across the APC, PDP, and NDC, I chose the NDC — a party built on fairness, inclusion, and people-driven governance.
By the grace of God, I emerged as the NDC senatorial candidate for Plateau North.
Why aim directly for the Senate at this point in time?
Because the moment calls for it.
I have paid my dues at the grassroots level. Now I must go to Abuja to attract federal development, legislation, and projects that will transform Plateau North.
What inspired you to run for the senatorial seat?
I would say injustice in power sharing.
Since 1999, five out of the six local government areas in Plateau North have produced senators. Only Jos North has not produced a senator. That is not inclusive representation; it is imbalance.
I stepped forward because fairness demands correction.
What do you see as the three greatest challenges facing Plateau North?
Insecurity, particularly in Bassa, Barkin Ladi, and Riyom.
There is also chronic unemployment, as our graduates continue to roam the streets.
We also suffer from inadequate development in road infrastructure, healthcare facilities, and education.
What are your concrete plans for job creation and support for small and medium enterprises (SMEs)?
My plans are practical and targeted: improve rural road networks and strengthen market access for women, farmers, and traders.
We will provide capital, training, and access to markets for youths in leatherwork, agriculture, and technology.
We will also develop a structured agricultural value chain and promote responsible mining to create sustainable employment opportunities.
How will women and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) benefit from your projects and programmes?
We have not done enough for PWDs, and that must change.
In my office, every empowerment programme will include a mandatory quota for women and PWDs in grants, skills acquisition, and infrastructure support.
What is your message to the youths of Plateau North and to those aspiring to serve?
My message is simple: rise, build, and serve with integrity.
A youth with a skill and a job is less likely to engage in violence. Channel your energy into productivity, not destruction. Plateau needs builders, not fighters.
Our youths should be agents of peace and unity. Plateau North is one family.
If you were asked to name a three-point agenda for Plateau North Senatorial District, what would it be?
Security, job creation, and equity.
I will strengthen collaboration on security, empower women and youths through employment and enterprise, and ensure balanced development across all six local government areas to address long-standing exclusion.
What are your closing words to stakeholders and the people of Plateau North Senatorial District?
For over two decades, one local government area has been left behind. That chapter must close.
Plateau North will rise together. No community will be forgotten.
*Dr. Jonathan Musa Bature NDC Senatorial Candidate, Plateau North Married to Dr. Dorcas Daniel Bature, and blessed with children.
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