Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has realigned political forces in the state through his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All-Progressives Congress (APC), several political actors said, highlighting the impact of the move on the state’s political landscape.
Mutfwang’s formal resignation from the PDP and subsequent entry into the ruling party in early January marked a significant shift in the politics of Plateau, where party affiliations have historically been deeply contested.
The governor, who was elected in 2023 under the banner of the PDP, notified his ward chairman of his resignation at the end of December 2025 before officially joining the APC in January.
Mutfwang said his decision was informed by consultations, reflection and a desire to unify the state’s political stakeholders.
At a ceremony in Jos, APC leaders welcomed Mutfwang into the party, with Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, National Chairman of the APC, confirming the governor’s defection. The move made the APC the governing party in Plateau, reinforcing its influence in the North-Central region.
Supporters of the governor’s defection described the development as a unifying moment for Plateau’s political actors.
They said the shift has brought together leaders from diverse backgrounds under a common platform aligned with the APC’s agenda and the federal government’s Renewed Hope policies.
Party leaders organising the official reception noted that the realignment created a broad political platform capable of transcending partisan divides and strengthening collaboration on governance priorities, infrastructural development and economic opportunities for the state’s citizens.
The defection has drawn mixed reactions across political circles in Plateau. Some leaders welcomed the move as strategic and capable of positioning the state for greater federal support, while others expressed concern about its implications for the PDP’s presence and party competition in the state.
Former Plateau Governor Jonah Jang said the defection would not necessarily weaken the PDP’s influence, emphasising the party’s resilience and commitment to its foundational principles despite leadership changes.
Observers say the reconfiguration of political forces in Plateau is likely to influence dynamics ahead of the 2027 general elections, shaping campaign strategies and party coalitions.
The governor’s alignment with the APC may affect voter sentiments and the positioning of opposition parties within the state.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s defection from the PDP to the APC has united political forces in Plateau State and reshaped the state’s political landscape, according to political stakeholders.
The realignment has generated significant debate about party strength, unity and the strategic direction of governance ahead of national elections.
