Mutfwang dumps PDP for APC, pledges loyalty to Tinubu ahead of 2027

By Johnson Arua

Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), declaring that his decision was guided by the need to foster unity in the state and align Plateau more closely with the administration of President Bola Tinubu ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The governor was formally received into the APC on Friday at the Government House in Jos, where he was presented with his party membership card by the Plateau State APC Chairman, Rufus Bature.

His registration card bears the number APC 31110100001. The defection followed his submission of a formal resignation letter to the PDP.

Addressing party leaders, stakeholders and supporters at the event, Mutfwang urged those expressing fear or scepticism about his move to remain calm and patient, assuring them that Plateau State would ultimately benefit from the decision.

He said the step was taken in the overriding interest of unity, stability and effective governance, stressing that the development of Plateau must rise above personal ambition and partisan divisions.

According to the governor, his administration is committed to inclusiveness and reconciliation, adding that political differences should not be allowed to hinder the collective progress of the state.

He pledged his full support for President Tinubu and affirmed his readiness to work for the success of the APC, including the President’s re-election bid in 2027.

Reflecting on his emergence as governor, Mutfwang recalled the protracted legal battles that followed the 2023 governorship election, noting that his victory, which was upheld by the Supreme Court, came without the backing of political godfathers. He described the experience as divinely ordained and said it reinforced his belief in purposeful leadership.

The governor also acknowledged past political disagreements with key APC figures, including former Plateau State Governor, Simon Lalong, and other party leaders. He said his defection marked a new chapter defined by forgiveness, cooperation and collective responsibility.

“Plateau is bigger than any individual or political party,” Mutfwang said, calling on APC members to work together for the overall development of the state.

He also reassured PDP members who chose not to defect with him that they would not be treated as adversaries, stressing that his government remains open and respectful to all.

In his remarks, APC State Chairman, Rufus Bature, welcomed the governor and other defectors into the party, assuring them of equal rights, opportunities and responsibilities within the APC.

Party chairmen from Mutfwang’s Ampang West Ward and Mangu Local Government Area also pledged their loyalty and confidence in his leadership.

Following the reception, Governor Mutfwang visited the APC secretariat at Kalwa House, Jos, where he held his first formal meeting with party leaders and stakeholders.

The event attracted several dignitaries, including the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs, Bernard Doro; former governors Joshua Dariye and Simon Lalong; members of the State Executive Council; current and former lawmakers; ALGON representatives; and other party leaders.

Meanwhile, former Plateau State Governor and PDP chieftain, Senator Jonah Jang, has sought to reassure party members that the PDP remains strong and united despite Mutfwang’s exit. In a statement issued through his media consultant, Jang described the party as resilient and committed to democratic ideals, urging members to remain focused and confident.

While wishing Governor Mutfwang success in his new political alignment, Senator Jang advised him to place the interest of Plateau State above partisan considerations, expressing hope that the ongoing political realignments would ultimately translate into tangible benefits for the people.