Reported by: Oahimire Omone Precious | Edited by: Gabriel Osa
PLATEAU STATE, Nigeria — Former Governor and senior Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) leader Jonah Jang has dismissed concerns that the recent defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) will weaken the PDP’s standing in Plateau State. Jang’s reassurances come amid heightened political tensions following the governor’s formal departure from the opposition party.
Announced on January 2, 2026, Governor Mutfwang’s defection to the APC marked a major political realignment in the state, with the governor receiving his APC membership card at a stakeholders’ event in Jos. Mutfwang said the move was intended to foster purposeful leadership and stronger alignment with federal policies to accelerate development in Plateau.
In response, Jang acknowledged that the decision to defect was Mutfwang’s constitutional right, adding that it may spark debate but should not be interpreted as a sign of weakness for the PDP. Speaking in Jos, the former governor sought to reassure PDP members and supporters that the party remains united, stable and capable of continuing its role in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Jang emphasised that the PDP will not be distracted by the defection, and he reiterated the party’s commitment to strengthening internal democracy, engaging constructively with its members, and advancing policies that promote inclusive governance and national development. He also extended well‑wishes to Mutfwang in his new political chapter and reiterated his availability as a father figure to offer guidance if needed.
The reaction from PDP loyalists comes amid broader criticism from the party, which has described Mutfwang’s departure as a “betrayal of public mandate” and political opportunism. The PDP accused him of abandoning the platform that brought him to office, arguing that the move undermines democratic accountability.
Meanwhile, the Plateau APC has defended the defection, dismissing the PDP’s claims of betrayal and arguing that Mutfwang’s decision reflects the party’s vitality and appeal. APC officials assert that the governor’s move, together with several of his supporters, demonstrates confidence in the ruling party’s direction and policies.
Governor Mutfwang’s shift to the APC also aligns Plateau with the federal government’s political configuration, a strategic development as the country approaches the 2027 general elections. The governor cited his desire to accelerate development and attract federal support as part of his motivation for switching parties.
Despite these changes, Jang’s statements reflect the PDP’s determination to weather the political storm and maintain relevance in Plateau State’s evolving landscape. His comments are likely aimed at calming anxieties among loyalists and reinforcing the belief that the party’s structures and grassroots presence remain resilient.
As political actors in Plateau continue to adjust to the new dynamics, the response from both the PDP and APC highlights the intensifying competition for influence in a state that remains electorally significant in Nigeria’s broader political terrain.
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