The political landscape in Plateau State has witnessed a significant shift with the formal entry of Governor Caleb Muftwang into the All Progressives Congress (APC). The North-Central APC Forum, a key stakeholder group, has officially welcomed the governor, setting a clear agenda focused on unity and development for the state.
A Warm Welcome with Clear Expectations
In a statement released on Monday, January 6, 2026, in Abuja, the North-Central APC Forum extended a warm reception to Governor Muftwang. The statement was signed by the Forum's Chairman, Saleh Zazzaga, who is also a member of the APC campaign council from the 2023 elections. The group expressed strong confidence in the governor's capacity to strengthen the APC and lead Plateau State forward.
The Forum revealed that it had actively championed a campaign to convince Governor Muftwang to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). They stated that his move to the ruling party is in the best interest of the people of Plateau. However, this welcome came with direct advice for the governor's new political chapter.
Call to Reject Division and Embrace Inclusive Governance
A central pillar of the Forum's message was a call for Governor Muftwang to distance his administration from divisive politics. The group advised him to do away with elements in his government who have been championing ethnic and religious agendas.
The statement emphasized that such divisive tactics should have no place in what they termed Muftwang's new "progressive" administration under the APC. "We campaigned for Governor Muftwang’s defection because we know he has a good heart and really wants to develop the state," the Forum said. "One of our main reasons for pushing for his defection to the APC was to separate him from people with such divisive mindset."
They urged the governor to carefully select officials who are genuinely committed to the state's development, rather than those pushing sectarian interests. Furthermore, the Forum advised Muftwang to take full charge of his administration, eliminating any undue influence from "godfathers" and to work for the people without fear or favour.
Strategic Move for 2027 and Beyond
The Forum provided insight into the strategic reasoning behind their vigorous campaign for the governor's defection. They disclosed facing intimidation and harassment during their advocacy, primarily from individuals who feared Muftwang's move would affect their own gubernatorial ambitions.
Despite this, they persevered, driven by confidence in the governor's abilities. The statement also linked Muftwang's defection to broader political goals. The North-Central APC Forum reminded everyone that they were the first to endorse President Bola Tinubu for another term and had promised six million votes from the region in the 2027 election.
"This promise also informed our decision to campaign for Governor Muftwang’s coming to the APC because we know the people of Plateau are with him, and his coming will help to actualise the six million votes for Mr President," the statement concluded, framing the defection as a win for both Plateau development and the APC's national prospects.
