‘I did not betray my people; I aligned with APC for the good of Plateau State’ — Gov. Mutfwang!

‘I did not betray my people; I aligned with APC for the good of Plateau State’ — Gov. Mutfwang!

Reported by Marian Opeyemi Fasesan | Sele Media Africa

Jos, Plateau State — Plateau State Governor Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has responded to criticism over his recent political defection, insisting that his choice to join the All Progressives Congress (APC) is not a betrayal of the people of Plateau State, but a strategic move aimed at advancing unity, peace and development for the state.

Governor Mutfwang, who was elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in 2023, formally resigned his membership from the PDP on December 29, 2025, and completed his registration with the APC in early January 2026. The defection marks a major political shift for the administration in Jos.

In a statement delivered during his reception into the ruling party, Mutfwang said his decision was taken after careful reflection, extensive consultations and a commitment to place the interests of Plateau people above partisan differences. He emphasised that his move to the APC was founded on conviction and a belief that aligning with the ruling party will better position the state to attract federal support for critical infrastructure, security and socio-economic development.

“The broom symbol of the APC signifies unity of purpose,” he said, adding that his entry into the party was intended to strengthen national unity and foster cooperation among political stakeholders. Mutfwang stressed, “We have not come to take over, but to add value to the party… so together we can end political rivalries on the Plateau and pursue shared progress.”

Responses and Reactions

The PDP in Plateau State has strongly rejected the governor’s justification, describing his defection as a “betrayal of public mandate” and an abandonment of the platform that brought him to power. PDP officials accused Mutfwang of prioritising political convenience over democratic principles and warned that the party may explore legal and political options in response.

Meanwhile, the APC leadership has defended the governor’s decision, dismissing accusations of betrayal. Party officials described Mutfwang’s defection as a patriotic step driven by a shared vision of inclusive development, peace and unity for Plateau State. The APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, welcomed Mutfwang and highlighted the move as reflective of a shared commitment to effective governance.

Political Implications

Political analysts suggest the governor’s alignment with the APC could provide Plateau State with improved access to federal programmes and resources ahead of the 2027 general elections. Supporters of the move argue that closer ties with the ruling party may help accelerate the implementation of national initiatives in Plateau and amplify the state’s voice on national platforms. Critics, however, warn that such realignments may weaken the opposition’s role in Nigeria’s democratic system.

Conclusion

Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s defection to the APC continues to generate significant debate in Plateau’s political landscape. While supporters celebrate the strategic realignment as beneficial to state interests, detractors maintain that it undermines the trust placed in him by voters who elected him under the PDP banner. The outcome of this political realignment is likely to influence Plateau’s trajectory as Nigeria approaches the 2027 elections.

Here are the exact citations with links that you can copy and use directly in your news report:

Citations:

1. National update: https://nationalupdate.ng/2026/01/02/apc-strengthens-hold-in-north-central-as-plateau-governor-joins-ruling-party/
2. The Authority News: https://authorityngr.com/2026/01/27/mutfwang-weve-not-come-to-take-over-plateau-apc-weve-come-to-add-value/
3. THISDAYLIVE: https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/01/02/pdp-condemns-mutfwangs-defection-to-apc-calls-move-betrayal-of-public-mandate/
4. The Nigeria voice: https://www.thenigerianvoice.com/news/361720/apc-chairman-welcomes-plateau-governor-to-ruling-party-says.html
5. THISDAYLIVE: https://www.thisdaylive.com/2026/01/28/shettima-to-mutfwang-tinubu-has-assured-you-of-a-place-second-to-none-in-our-party/

About The Author

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan

editor

Marian Opeyemi Fasesan is a dynamic journalist and editorial leader committed to excellence in news reporting and storytelling. As the Editor-in-Chief of Sele Media Africa, she ensures daily operations run smoothly while upholding the highest editorial standards. With a strong eye for detail and deep understanding of audience engagement, Marian coordinates content across platforms, guiding teams to produce compelling, timely, and credible news. Her leadership reflects the heart of Sele Media Africa’s mission—to inform, inspire, and elevate voices across the continent.

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