In a significant political realignment, the All Progressives Congress (APC) has officially welcomed Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, into its fold after his defection from the opposition Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
APC Chairman Announces Major Political Shift
The ruling party's National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, made the announcement public during the APC's 14th National Caucus meeting. The crucial gathering took place on Thursday, December 18, 2025, at the State House Conference Centre located in Abuja, the nation's capital.
Yilwatda declared that Governor Mutfwang's move to the APC marks a monumental achievement for the party. He emphasized that this development effectively brings the entire North-Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria under the control of the APC. This region, which includes Plateau, Benue, Niger, Kwara, Kogi, and Nasarawa states, is now a consolidated stronghold for the ruling party.
Implications for Nigeria's Political Landscape
The defection of a sitting governor is a severe blow to the main opposition PDP, which is struggling to maintain its influence ahead of future electoral cycles. Governor Mutfwang's crossover represents a continuation of a trend where elected officials switch allegiance to the party at the federal centre, a practice commonly referred to in Nigerian politics as "defection."
This move not only strengthens the APC's legislative and gubernatorial numbers but also significantly weakens the PDP's structure and morale in a key region. Political analysts suggest this could impact resource allocation, political appointments, and the overall balance of power ahead of the next general elections.
What This Means for Plateau State and Beyond
For the people of Plateau State, the governor's defection raises questions about potential shifts in state policies, alignment with federal programs, and the future of local political dynamics. The APC's consolidation of the North-Central zone is expected to enhance its strategic positioning for national campaigns, granting it greater leverage in one of the country's most politically active regions.
The announcement, made directly by the party's national leadership, underscores the importance the APC places on this acquisition. It signals the party's ongoing strategy to expand its reach and marginalize the opposition by absorbing its key figures.
