JOS, NIGERIA — The political landscape of Plateau State undergoes a seismic shift today as Vice President Kashim Shettima arrives in Jos to formally receive Governor Caleb Mutfwang into the All Progressives Congress (APC).
The grand reception, scheduled for the Jos Polo Field, marks the climax of a month-long political migration that has effectively dismantled the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) structure in the state. Governor Mutfwang, who was elected on the PDP platform in 2023, officially resigned from the party on December 29, 2025, and collected his APC membership card (marked 001) on January 2, 2026.
A Massive Political Migration
Governor Mutfwang is not joining the ruling party alone. In a sweeping move that has stunned political observers, the Governor is defecting alongside:
- All members of the State Executive Council (Commissioners and aides).
- All 17 Local Government Chairmen across the state.
- Senator Simon Mwadkwon, the former Senate Minority Leader.
- Senator Mwadkon Dachungyang, the serving Senator for Plateau North (formerly of the ADP).
The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee, Rt. Hon. Idris Maje, described the event as a “historic realignment” that signals a transition toward unity and inclusive leadership. “This decision places the people above party interests and positions Plateau to attract large-scale federal development,” Maje stated during a press briefing in Jos.
Heavyweights Descend on Jos
The ceremony is expected to be a “who’s who” of the Nigerian political elite. Joining Vice President Shettima are:
- Senator Godswill Akpabio, Senate President.
- Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives.
- Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, APC National Chairman.
- Various members of the Progressive Governors Forum and the Federal Executive Council.
The Fallout: PDP Cries Foul
The PDP has reacted with predictable fury, describing the Governor’s exit as a “betrayal of a sacred mandate.” State Publicity Secretary, Hon. Choji Felix Dalyop, accused Mutfwang of “political opportunism,” arguing that there were no constitutional grounds for the defection since there is no verifiable factionalization within the PDP at the state level.
However, Mutfwang has maintained that his move was “divinely guided” and necessary to align Plateau State with the center to ensure better security and infrastructure. His supporters point to his two years of service—marked by urban renewal in Jos and agricultural boosts—as evidence that his leadership transcends party lines.
Strategic Implications for 2027
With Mutfwang’s defection, the APC now controls every state in the North Central geopolitical zone, a significant strategic advantage ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Senator Simon Mwadkwon, who recently consulted with elders in Barkin Ladi, confirmed that the move is part of a broader effort to consolidate APC’s strength. Mwadkwon, whose 2023 election victory was nullified by the Court of Appeal, has already signaled his intent to contest the Senate seat again in 2027 under the APC banner.
As the gates of the Jos Polo Field open this morning, the “Home of Peace and Tourism” effectively becomes a “Home of the Progressives,” leaving the remaining PDP faithful to navigate an increasingly isolated political wilderness.
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