Rumours surrounding the possible defection of Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) have intensified following the circulation of newly branded shirts and caps online, heightening political tension across the state.
The speculation comes at a time when the APC in Plateau is experiencing significant internal consolidation under its newly elected National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda Goshwe. Since assuming office, Professor Nentawe has been credited with restoring discipline, unity, and strategic direction to the party—attracting major political stakeholders back into its fold.
In less than six months, the Plateau APC has witnessed a wave of mass defections, including former allies of Governor Mutfwang, members of various political blocs, and grassroots mobilizers. The party’s growing strength, analysts say, is a reflection of Nentawe’s inclusive leadership and a rejection of what defectors describe the PDP as “a party in crisis”.
However, the rumoured plan for Governor Mutfwang to join the APC has triggered a strong backlash from within party circles, with many questioning the political value he would bring. Party loyalists argue that while governors from other states are defecting with strong political structures, Mutfwang lacks such leverage. All but one National Assembly member from Plateau are already in the APC, along with 22 out of 24 members of the Plateau State House of Assembly. His support base within the PDP has also thinned, with several close associates—including his campaign Director General and ward chairman—crossing over to the APC.
The strongest opposition to his alleged move, however, has come from the Association of Decampees to the APC, led by Hon. Mutbel Danlami. In a press briefing on 11 November 2025, the group denounced the rumours, warning the APC at both state and national levels against welcoming the governor.
The group described Governor Mutfwang’s administration as “hostile, exclusive, and directionless,” accusing him of selective governance, tribal favoritism, and rewarding loyalty with neglect. According to Hon. Mutbel, accepting Mutfwang into the APC would be akin to “helping Pharaoh cross the Red Sea,” arguing that he would “destroy the party from within.”
They further stated that their own defection from the PDP to the APC earlier this year was motivated by a need for “inclusiveness, fairness, and purposeful leadership,” alleging that the governor betrayed and abandoned many who worked tirelessly for his 2023 victory.
Mutbel insisted that the APC does not need Governor Mutfwang to win future elections, stating that “all those who supported him have already fled,” leaving him politically weakened.
As rumours continue to spread, political observers note that Plateau State’s political landscape remains volatile, with realignments and counter-realignments reshaping the terrain ahead of the next election cycle.
The controversy comes at a time when Nigeria is witnessing heightened political tensions and security concerns, including recent attacks, emerging threats in several states, and increased public anxiety over governance and stability.
