Major Political Shift as APC Consolidates Power in Plateau
The All Progressives Congress (APC) has strengthened its political foothold in Plateau State with the reception of numerous high-profile defectors from opposition parties during a significant event held in Jos over the weekend. The gathering witnessed the presence of top-ranking APC officials, including National Chairman Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda and Senate President Goodwill Akpabio, who represented President Bola Tinubu.
Other prominent figures in attendance included Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives Benjamin Kalu, former Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong, who now serves as Senator representing Plateau South, and Senator Diket Plang from Plateau Central. The collective presence of these political heavyweights underscored the importance the APC places on expanding its influence in the North-Central region.
Notable Defectors Join Ruling Party
While the exact number of defectors remained undisclosed, several significant political figures publicly switched allegiance to the APC. Among them were former Senator Istifanus Gyang who previously represented Plateau North, Mr Latep Dabang who served as political adviser to Governor Caleb Mutfwang, Professor Patrick Dakum the erstwhile Labour Party governorship candidate, and Daniel Asama, former member representing Jos North/Bassa in the House of Representatives.
The defectors originated from multiple opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), New Nigeria People's Party (NNPP), and Labour Party (LP), signaling a broad-based political realignment in the state. This development occurs against the backdrop of increasing political maneuvering ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Taraba Governor's Defection Sparks Debate
Meanwhile, in Taraba State, Governor Agbu Kefas's recent defection from the PDP to the APC has created political ripples across the state. The move has generated divided opinions among residents and political analysts, with many questioning the motivation behind the governor's decision.
APC State Chairman Ibrahim Tukur El-Suldi has defended the governor's transition, characterizing it as a step toward improved governance rather than political ambition. "Contrary to public perception that the governor's performance under the PDP was unimpressive, I strongly believe he will perform better under the APC," El-Suldi stated during a press conference in Jalingo.
Internal Party Conflict Emerges in Plateau
The political landscape in Plateau State has also witnessed internal party tensions as some APC members staged protests against the potential defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang to their party. The demonstration, which took place in Jos on Saturday, featured placards opposing the governor's possible entry into the APC.
The North-Central All Progressives Congress Forum has strongly condemned the protest, describing it as undemocratic and driven by personal ambitions rather than party interests. In a statement issued by its chairman, Saleh Zazzaga, the forum emphasized that no individual or group possesses the authority to prevent anyone, including a sitting governor, from joining a political party of their choice.
As the 2027 elections approach, these political developments in both Plateau and Taraba states indicate significant realignments that could reshape the political landscape in Nigeria's North-Central region, with the APC positioning itself as the dominant political force.
