JOS, Nigeria — Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has denied widespread rumours suggesting he plans to defect from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC), describing the reports as “unfounded and misleading.”
Speaking during a recent media chat in Jos, the governor categorically stated that he has not held any discussions about leaving the PDP, amid growing speculation triggered by recent defections of PDP governors in other states.
“I haven’t had that conversation [of leaving PDP for APC] with anyone,” Mutfwang said.
“The media has speculated a lot, but nothing has happened.”
His comments come as governors from Delta and Akwa Ibom recently announced their defection to the ruling APC, stirring uncertainty within the opposition camp.
However, Mutfwang affirmed that Plateau remains a stronghold of the PDP.
“Plateau has always stood with the PDP. The APC has never really existed on the Plateau. I say that with every sense of responsibility,” he said.
The governor blamed the defection rumours on individuals and groups pushing a political narrative not grounded in reality.
“Some of them mean well but are mistaken,” he added.
Reflecting on past electoral processes in the state, Mutfwang accused the APC of using questionable tactics to gain power.
“In 2015, we paused collation at 8 p.m. and planned to continue the next morning. But by 2 a.m., results had already been announced. That tells you everything,” he alleged.
He also claimed that in the 2019 governorship election, the PDP’s candidate, General Jeremiah Usaini (rtd), was denied victory through systemic manipulation.
“We know who truly won that election,” he added.
According to Mutfwang, APC politicians in Plateau lack public trust and often seek validation by aligning themselves with PDP figures.
“Some APC members wish we could validate them with our credibility. But Plateau politics doesn’t work that way,” he said.
He reiterated his commitment to the PDP and said his political journey would remain aligned with the aspirations of Plateau people.
“My political future will be decided by God and the people of Plateau State. Wherever Plateau people go, that’s where we go.”
Addressing internal challenges within the PDP, especially legal setbacks affecting the party’s legislative representation, Mutfwang acknowledged the difficulties but maintained that reconciliation efforts are underway.
“As a member of the national reconciliation team, I can tell you progress is being made. 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,” he said.
