By Omoniyi David
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has firmly dismissed rumours of a planned defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the speculation as baseless and politically motivated.
Speaking with journalists, Mutfwang reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a platform he said has shaped his political ideology and reflects the collective will of Plateau people.
“I haven’t had any conversation about leaving the PDP for the APC with anyone,” he said. “The media has speculated a lot, but nothing has happened. It’s the creation of certain individuals pushing their own agenda.”
His remarks come amid recent high-profile defections from the PDP, including governors in Delta and Akwa Ibom states who have joined the APC.
However, Mutfwang emphasized that his commitment to the PDP is driven by conviction and history, not political convenience.
“Plateau has always stood with the PDP. APC has never truly existed here. I say that with every sense of responsibility,” he declared.
The governor argued that political affiliation should be rooted in principle and ideological alignment, not opportunism.
He said those promoting the defection narrative either misunderstand Plateau’s political reality or are attempting to stir momentum where none exists.
“Some of them mean well but are mistaken,” he added, referring to pressure groups urging him to defect.
Recalling the controversial emergence of the APC in Plateau in 2015, Mutfwang alleged electoral manipulation.
“In 2015, we paused collation at 8 p.m. and planned to resume the next morning. But by 2 a.m., results had already been announced. That tells you everything,” he said.
He also claimed that the PDP was unjustly denied victory in 2019, asserting that the party’s candidate, General Jeremiah Useni, was the rightful winner.
These experiences, Mutfwang said, have only strengthened the PDP’s roots in the state.
While acknowledging the unpredictability of politics, he said his future decisions would be guided by divine direction and the will of the people. “My political future will be decided by God and the people. Wherever Plateau people go, that’s where we’ll go.”
Despite internal challenges, including the loss of key legislative seats through court rulings, Mutfwang expressed confidence in the PDP’s revival.
As a member of the party’s national reconciliation team, he said efforts are ongoing to restore unity and rebuild trust.
“I am a bona fide member of the PDP. I remain so. And I’m optimistic that very soon, the PDP crisis will be history. Our people are watching. They know who has stood by them in good times and bad.
“That’s what matters in Plateau politics, not propaganda or press statements,” he concluded.
