Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has officially defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). The development was confirmed today during the APC’s 14th National Caucus Meeting held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, where President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and all APC state governors were in attendance.
APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, formally announced Governor Mutfwang’s defection before party delegates and state executives. With his move, Plateau State now joins the growing list of states under APC leadership, further solidifying the party’s strength ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Tinubu Welcomes Mutfwang into the APC
President Tinubu, addressing party loyalists at the meeting, welcomed Governor Mutfwang into the APC fold. The President reiterated his commitment to inclusive politics and urged newly-joined members to focus on national development and unity. Although official remarks from President Tinubu are still being compiled, the atmosphere was one of celebration and strategic alignment among APC leaders.
Political Impact and Strategic Gains
Governor Mutfwang’s defection marks a significant political shift in Nigeria’s Middle Belt. It reinforces APC’s dominance in the North-Central region, with the party now controlling an even larger number of governorship seats nationwide. Analysts believe this realignment could reshape electoral dynamics and party strategies ahead of 2027.
Political watchers had long speculated about Mutfwang’s political future, with various state groups and APC forums pushing for his move in recent months.
What This Means for Plateau Politics
The defection is expected to trigger a realignment of political priorities in Plateau State, where the opposition PDP had been the dominant party. Supporters of the governor in Plateau argue that aligning with the ruling party on the federal level will attract greater federal support and development projects for the state.
Governor Mutfwang’s Next Steps
In the coming days, the APC is expected to organise a formal reception event for Governor Mutfwang in Plateau. Party insiders suggest the move will be accompanied by strategic consultations with state executives and grassroots leaders to strengthen APC’s presence ahead of the 2027 governorship and general elections
