A renowned peace builder and Special Envoy on Peace and Security to the Plateau State Governor, Prof. Chris Kwaja, has formally joined the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Gurum Ward of Bassa Local Government Area.
Prof. Kwaja was received into the party on Thursday amid celebration by party faithful and stakeholders in Gurum Ward, marking what supporters described as a significant political development in the area.
Speaking shortly after his reception, Prof. Kwaja described his defection as a “strategic movement,” noting that the political landscape in Nigeria is undergoing a shift influenced by national and state-level leadership efforts aimed at unity and development.
According to him, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s commitment to uniting Nigerians across religious, ethnic and regional lines, as well as Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s focus on peace and inclusive governance in Plateau State, informed his decision to join the ruling party.
“Nigeria is the focus, and some of us believe we can contribute in our own modest way to achieving the goal of a united Nigeria,” he said. “With what I see in terms of the efforts made by Mr. President and Governor Caleb Mutfwang in uniting people and delivering on their responsibilities, I believe joining hands with them through the APC will be of value. I have formally decided to pitch my tent with the All Progressives Congress.”
Prof. Kwaja emphasized that his primary focus within the APC would be to align the President’s “Renewed Hope Agenda” and the Governor’s “Time Is Now” mantra with the broader goal of promoting peace, unity, progress and equity.
“Without peace, there is no development. Without peace, there is no harmony. Once you get it right with peace, then infrastructure and other projects will make sense to the people,” he added.
Addressing concerns that the growing influence of the APC could lead to a one-party state, Kwaja dismissed the notion, stressing that Nigeria remains a multiparty democracy.
“This is not about creating a one-party system. In the past, we had situations where the PDP dominated with many governors. Nigerians still have the right to vote and decide the path they want. What is important is that citizens must hold the APC accountable,” he stated.
He further called for internal democracy within the party, noting that party members and citizens alike must speak up constructively when things go wrong. “The APC is made up of human beings. They are bound to make mistakes. Every Nigerian has the right to voice out to ensure those mistakes are corrected,” he said.
Welcoming him into the party, the APC Chairman of Gurum Ward, Alhaji Rilwanu Usman, described Kwaja’s entry as a historic moment, citing his capacity and influence as assets that would strengthen the party at the grassroots.
Similarly, the APC Women Leader in the ward, Hon. Mrs. Sarah Bali, described the development as a major boost not only for the ward and state but also nationally, pledging the party’s support for him.
Also speaking at the event, Barr. Beatrice C.J. Dakas, National Coordinator of Renewed Hope Advocates for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 2027, said Prof. Kwaja’s decision to join the APC would enhance unity and progress in Bassa LGA, Plateau State and Nigeria at large.
She expressed confidence that his experience in peacebuilding would further strengthen the party’s development agenda and provide a platform for greater national engagement.
Dakas explained that the Renewed Hope Advocates is focused on mobilizing support for President Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027, citing what she described as visible improvements and impactful leadership under the current administration.
“We believe in what the President has done so far. While there is still work to be done, we are seeing progress. Our role is to galvanize support for his re-election in 2027,” she said.
The event drew party members, supporters and community leaders, signaling what observers say could reshape the political dynamics in Bassa LGA and beyond.
