Political realignments in Plateau State appear set to intensify as Governor Caleb Mutfwang prepares to formally join the All Progressives Congress (APC) early next year. The move follows his departure from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), marking a significant shift in the state’s political landscape.
The planned reception for the governor into the ruling party was revealed by APC National Chairman Nentawe Yilwatda during a stakeholders’ gathering held in Jos on December 22. The meeting, which took place at the Crest Hotel, brought together party leaders and supporters to discuss developments within the party in the state.
Yilwatda explained that preparations were underway for the official event expected in January. He had earlier informed party leaders about Mutfwang’s defection during a National Caucus meeting held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja.
According to the APC chairman, the governor’s entry into the party is expected to strengthen the party’s influence in Plateau State and provide greater unity among its members. He suggested that the development effectively places the state firmly within the APC’s political fold.
During the meeting, Yilwatda also encouraged party supporters to register through the party’s electronic membership system. The digital registration initiative, he noted, would ensure that members are properly documented ahead of future electoral activities, including the 2027 general elections.
Other political figures present at the gathering also addressed party faithful, stressing the need for unity and cooperation as the party prepares for future contests.
Former Plateau governor and current senator Simon Lalong used the opportunity to acknowledge the commitment of party members. He praised their loyalty and assured them that the leadership would continue to recognise and involve them in decision-making processes.
Similarly, the APC chairman in Plateau State, Hon. Rufus Bature, urged members to maintain harmony within the party. He emphasised the importance of respecting the party hierarchy and working collectively to advance its objectives.
The stakeholders’ meeting attracted several notable political personalities, reflecting the significance of the development for the state’s political environment.
Among those present were influential lawmakers and political leaders including Senator Diket Plang and former Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Ahmed Idris Wase.
Other prominent attendees included Babayo Gagdi, John Dafa’an, Dalyop Fom, and the Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Naanlong Daniel.
Several additional figures from Plateau’s political circle also took part in the discussions, such as Senator I.D. Gyang, Victor Lar, Hezekiah Dimka, S.D. Lot, Cyril Tsenyil, Umar Mantu, Professor Artu, and retired General John Sura.
Governor Mutfwang later addressed political stakeholders separately at the Government House in Jos, where he explained the factors that influenced his decision to leave the PDP.
He pointed to persistent organisational and leadership challenges within the opposition party as a major reason behind his decision to reconsider his political alignment.
Mutfwang also disclosed that President Bola Tinubu personally encouraged him to join the APC. The governor said the president had previously respected his earlier decision to remain outside the ruling party while maintaining a cordial relationship with him.
According to the governor, several APC governors and influential political figures had long urged him to switch allegiance. However, he noted that he chose to remain in the PDP until recent developments convinced him that a new political direction was necessary.
Commentary and Analysis
Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s planned move to the APC could significantly reshape Plateau State’s political dynamics ahead of the next election cycle.
Defections by sitting governors often strengthen the receiving party’s structure and influence at the state level. In this case, the APC may gain greater organisational presence in Plateau as political actors adjust to the new alignment.
At the same time, the development highlights ongoing internal challenges within opposition parties, particularly the PDP, where leadership disputes and structural issues have triggered several high-profile defections in recent years.
If the transition proceeds smoothly and party members unite behind the governor’s move, the APC could consolidate its position in the state ahead of the 2027 elections.
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