The political landscape in Nigeria has witnessed a significant realignment as the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially confirmed the defection of Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). This move marks a pivotal shift, granting the ruling party control over all state governments in the North Central geopolitical zone.
Official Announcement and Political Implications
The confirmation was delivered by the APC National Chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, during the party's 14th National Caucus meeting held on Wednesday at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja. The meeting was presided over by President Bola Tinubu and attended by several other governors who have recently crossed over from the PDP.
Yilwatda emphasized the strategic importance of the defection, noting it solidifies the APC's dominance across the entire North Central region. This development is part of a broader trend reshaping Nigeria's political dynamics as the country edges closer to the 2027 general elections.
Reasons Behind the Move to the APC
Governor Mutfwang's decision, as explained by his Political Adviser, Mr. Istifanus Nwansat, stems from internal crises within the PDP. In a statement made on Monday, Nwansat described the APC as the "safest option" amidst the instability, arguing that aligning with President Tinubu's federal government would yield tangible benefits for Plateau State.
"From our assessment and analysis of all available options, we have concluded that the decision with the least risk is to move into the APC," Nwansat stated. He added that the governor believes it is reasonable and in the public interest to cooperate with the federal government, recognizing its efforts to address national issues.
The defection follows public pressure, including a rally in Jos where PDP members, led by Mr. Christopher Danjem, urged the governor to switch parties. Danjem argued that joining the APC would attract more federal projects and enhance cooperation on critical issues like the security challenges facing Plateau State.
The Growing Wave of PDP Defections
Governor Mutfwang's move is not an isolated event but part of a mass exodus from the PDP that has deepened the opposition party's crisis. Throughout 2025, at least five other sitting PDP governors have defected to the APC:
- Sheriff Oborevwori (Delta State) – Defected in April 2025, citing the PDP's non-viability.
- Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom State) – Joined in June 2025 for stability and long-term benefits.
- Peter Mbah (Enugu State) – Switched in October for state development and federal representation.
- Douye Diri (Bayelsa State) – Left in October, blaming the PDP's "terminal decline."
- Siminalayi Fubara (Rivers State) – Defected in December to support President Tinubu.
This trend underscores a strategic repositioning by state executives seeking to secure their political futures and ensure their states are aligned with the central government's agenda. As reported earlier, Governor Mutfwang's plan to defect seamlessly to the APC before the end of 2025 was part of this calculated strategy.
The confirmation of his defection not only alters the balance of power in the North Central zone but also signals a consolidating momentum for the APC as it builds a formidable structure ahead of the next national polls.
