The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has officially welcomed Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to the APC family. This move follows Mutfwang’s recent defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). The Forum, instrumental in advocating for his switch, has outlined a clear agenda for the governor, emphasizing unity and progress. They urge Mutfwang to steer clear of ethnic and religious sentiments, advocating for a focus on inclusive governance and development for Plateau State. This welcome marks a significant political shift, with the Forum expressing confidence in Mutfwang’s ability to strengthen the APC in the region and deliver on the promises of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
The North-Central APC Forum, comprising stakeholders from six states, believes Governor Mutfwang’s transition to the APC is in the best interest of Plateau’s citizens. They have advised him to distance himself from individuals within his administration who have promoted divisive ethnic and religious agendas, urging him to embrace a “progressive” approach to governance. This guidance is rooted in the Forum’s desire to see Mutfwang operate in an environment conducive to unity and development, free from the divisive influences he may have encountered previously.
What is the primary agenda set for Governor Mutfwang by the North-Central APC Forum? The primary agenda is for Governor Mutfwang to avoid ethnic and religious sentiments in his administration and to work closely with President Bola Tinubu, focusing on the development and unity of Plateau State.
Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, Chairman of the Forum, released a statement detailing these expectations. He highlighted Mutfwang’s perceived good intentions for the state and his desire to develop it. The Forum’s core motivation for pushing his defection was to separate him from those with divisive mindsets and to foster an environment where developmental goals take precedence over sectarian interests.
Now that Governor Mutfwang is a member of the APC, the Forum stresses the importance of his careful selection of personnel. They want him to collaborate with individuals genuinely committed to Plateau’s development, rather than those solely pursuing ethnic or religious agendas. This focus on competent and development-oriented leadership is seen as crucial for the state’s advancement.
The Forum further implored the governor to actively unite the people of Plateau State, ensuring that the benefits of democracy reach all corners of the state, irrespective of ethnic or religious backgrounds. This call for inclusivity aims to foster a sense of shared destiny and collective progress among all citizens.
Working closely with President Tinubu is another key recommendation. The Forum believes this collaboration will be vital in addressing the security challenges plaguing Plateau State, potentially providing direct access to security chiefs and facilitating more effective solutions. This alignment with national leadership is viewed as essential for state-level stability and growth.
Governor Mutfwang is also encouraged to be a father figure to all citizens, embracing all ethnic nationalities and religious groups. The expectation is that he will continue his tradition of defending the heritage of the Plateau people and fully embrace the principles of the Renewed Hope Agenda championed by President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
A significant piece of advice from the North-Central APC Forum is for Mutfwang to take firm control of his administration. They have cautioned him against the undue influence of “godfathers” and other individuals who might seek to manipulate his government. By taking charge, he is expected to govern without fear or favor, prioritizing the welfare of the people.
The Forum acknowledged facing intimidation and harassment while campaigning for Mutfwang’s defection. Despite these challenges, they persevered, confident in his capabilities. They believe his move to the APC will not only strengthen the party but also significantly benefit the people of Plateau State.
Their commitment to President Tinubu’s administration is evident, as they were among the first to endorse him for another term and have pledged six million votes in the 2027 elections. This pledge informed their efforts to bring Mutfwang into the APC, anticipating that his popularity and leadership will help actualize these electoral goals.
The successful agitation for Governor Mutfwang’s defection is a source of happiness for the Forum, who are confident that the people of Plateau will reap the rewards of this political alignment. The transition is seen as a strategic move to consolidate political power and drive development in the state.
