Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has officially joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) following his resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), a move welcomed by Senator Simon Bako Lalong, the Senator representing Plateau South and former Governor of the state.
The formal presentation of the APC membership card to Governor Mutfwang marked a historic political moment in Plateau State. Senator Lalong described the development as a positive step that would foster unity, stability, and accelerated development across the state. “This defection presents a historic opportunity for the political class in Plateau State to unite and work collectively toward building a stronger and more prosperous state,” he said.
According to Hon. Pius Shehu Dakop, APC Ward Chairman of Ampang West, Governor Mutfwang approached the ward leadership to express his interest in joining the APC, after which arrangements were made for his registration in line with party procedures. His membership was formally forwarded through the party hierarchy to the State Chairman, Hon. Rufus Bature, who confirmed that the Governor had fulfilled all requirements and was duly admitted with full rights and privileges.
In line with the APC Constitution, Senator Lalong formally handed over the leadership of the party in the state to Governor Mutfwang, noting that the sitting governor assumes leadership when he is a member of the party.
Governor Mutfwang expressed delight at joining the APC, emphasizing that his decision was guided by personal conviction, consultations, and a desire to align with the progressive family at the national level for the benefit of Plateau State. Following his admission, he paid his first official visit to the APC State Secretariat in Jos, where he was warmly received by Senator Lalong, the State Chairman, and other top party leaders.
Former Governor of Plateau State, Chief Joshua Dariye, hailed the move as a long-held aspiration, expressing confidence that it would accelerate the progress of the state through unity and brotherhood. Senator Diket Plang said the defection would enhance synergy among stakeholders and strengthen engagement with the Federal Government to secure projects and programmes for Plateau State. Other leaders, including Hon. Yusuf Adamu Gagdi, representing Pankshin, Kanke/Kanam Federal Constituency, and Rt. Hon. Naanlong Daniel, Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, pledged their support to Governor Mutfwang and the APC.
Meanwhile, the PDP, through former Governor and Senator Jonah David Jang, reassured members that the party remains stable and committed to internal democracy and constructive engagement. In a press release, Senator Jang wished Governor Mutfwang well in his new political path, urging him and his supporters to prioritize the interests of Plateau State above party considerations.
The event concluded with Governor Mutfwang hosting party leaders and members at the New Government House, Little Rayfield, for a luncheon, further cementing his entry into the APC fold.
