In a major political realignment, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has announced the defection of Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
The announcement further solidifies the APC’s dominance in Nigeria’s political landscape.
APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yelwata, made the declaration during the party’s 14th national caucus meeting at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja on Wednesday. Chairman Yelwata, who hails from Plateau State, stated that with Governor Mutfwang’s move, the APC now governs all states in the North Central geopolitical zone.
“With the defection of His Excellency, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the entire North Central is now under the progressive leadership of the APC,” Yelwata told party stalwarts.
Governor Mutfwang, elected under the PDP platform in the 2023 general elections, becomes the latest high-profile figure to abandon the main opposition party. His defection follows those of the governors of Enugu, Bayelsa, Taraba, and Akwa Ibom States, all of whom were present at the high-profile caucus meeting.
The event, attended by President Bola Tinubu, Vice President Kashim Shettima, and former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, also served as a launchpad for a renewed membership drive. Chairman Yelwata issued an ultimatum, mandating all party members to complete an electronic registration process by January 30, 2026.
He emphasized that the new digital system aims to enhance transparency, data integrity, and internal democracy within the party. “We expect that this drive should be done from now to January 30th. All members must have registered and prepared for our congresses that will come ahead,” Yelwata stated.
The defection of Governor Mutfwang marks a significant strategic victory for the APC, effectively turning the North Central into a consolidated ruling-party zone and dealing a substantial blow to the PDP’s influence in the region.
This report is based on an official announcement by the APC leadership. As of the time of filing, there has been no immediate independent public statement from Governor Mutfwang or his office confirming the defection.
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