Governor restates resolve to remain in PDP
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has debunked speculation of a defection to All Progressives Congress (APC), describing such rumours as unfounded and misleading. Addressing journalists, Mutfwang reaffirmed his loyalty to Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a platform he said has shaped his political ideals and reflects the will and aspirations of his people.
“I haven’t had that conversation of leaving PDP for APC with anyone,” he said. “The media has speculated a lot, but nothing has happened. It is a creation of certain individuals pushing their agenda.”
Mutfwang’s response comes amid a high-profile defections that have rattled PDP, with governors in Delta and Akwa Ibom switching allegiance to APC. Yet, the Plateau helmsman insists his case is different, rooted not in convenience, but conviction and principle. “Plateau has always stood with PDP. APC has never existed on the Plateau. I say that with every sense of responsibility,” he declared.
For Mutfwang, political affiliation is not a matter of opportunism, but a reflection of deeper ideological and historical bonds. He contended that those behind the defection rumours either misunderstand the state’s political landscape or seek to manufacture momentum where none exists. “Some of them mean well but are mistaken,” he said, referring to pressure groups in and outside the state calling for a change of party.
Looking back, Mutfwang recalled APC’s controversial rise to power in Plateau. “In 2015, we paused collation at 8 pm and planned to continue the next morning. But by 2 am, results had been announced. That tells you everything,” he said, alluding to what he believes were irregularities.
He expressed his belief that PDP was robbed of victory in 2019, asserting that General Jeremiah Useni, the party’s flagbearer at the time, won. These experiences, Mutfwang said, have deepened PDP’s emotional and political roots in Plateau State.
Acknowledging uncertainty in politics, he said his path will be guided by his faith and commitment to service. “My political future will be decided by God and the people,” he said. “Wherever Plateau people go, that’s where we go.”
Despite internal challenges, Mutfwang expressed optimism about the PDP’s future. As a member of the party’s national reconciliation team, he admitted there have been losses, including key legislative seats through court rulings, but progress is being made toward unity and renewal. “I am a bona fide member of the PDP. I remain so. And I’m very optimistic that very soon, the PDP crisis will be a thing of the past. Our people are watching. They know who has stood with them in good times and bad. That’s what counts in Plateau politics—not propaganda, not press statements,” he said.
