Ambassador Fidelis Tapgun, a prominent chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and former Governor of Plateau State, has publicly criticized members of the state's All Progressives Congress (APC) for their opposition to Governor Caleb Muftwang's recent move to join their party.
Harmonious Relationship Makes Opposition "Mischievous"
Tapgun argued that given the existing harmonious working relationship between Governor Muftwang and the APC-led Plateau State House of Assembly, it is mischievous for some elements within the APC to now kick against the governor's defection. He expressed this view in an interview with The Guardian, highlighting the contradiction in their stance.
The former governor, who also served as Nigeria's Ambassador to Kenya under President Olusegun Obasanjo, clarified his general position on party switching. "Although I do not encourage the idea of politicians jumping from one party to another," Tapgun stated, "the crisis within the PDP does not help matters." This internal turmoil, he suggested, has created a difficult environment for governors elected under the PDP banner.
PDP's Self-Inflicted Destruction
Reflecting on the state of opposition in Plateau, Tapgun, who governed the state in 1991 on the platform of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), placed the blame squarely on certain PDP members. He regretted that self-centred politicians within the PDP were responsible for destroying the party, thereby making it an electorally risky proposition for its governors to remain.
He revealed that he personally congratulated Governor Muftwang for his decisive action. Tapgun praised the governor for taking "the bold step he took by freeing himself from slavery and extricating himself from the shackles of those who think they own PDP." This strong language underscores the depth of the rift and perceived ownership issues within the opposition party.
Political Re-alignment in the North Central
The defection, which occurred on Monday, January 12, 2026, marks a significant political shift. Despite resistance from some APC leaders in Plateau State, Governor Muftwang's move to the ruling party has effectively turned the entire North Central geopolitical zone into an APC-controlled region.
This development is a major blow to the PDP's national structure and influence, particularly in the Middle Belt. It raises critical questions about the future of opposition politics in Plateau State and the broader strategies of the main political parties as the nation looks ahead to future electoral cycles.
