POLITICAL EARTHQUAKE: Plateau Governor Mutfwang Dumps PDP for APC Ahead of 2027

In a dramatic political shake-up with far-reaching implications for the 2027 general elections, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

The high-profile defection was officially announced on Thursday during the APC National Caucus meeting held at the State House Conference Centre, Abuja, where the party’s National Chairman, Nentawe Yelwata, confirmed Mutfwang’s entry into the ruling party.

APC leaders hailed the development as a major political realignment that significantly strengthens the party’s dominance in the North-Central geopolitical zone, describing it as a strategic boost ahead of the next general elections.

With Mutfwang’s defection, the APC now controls all states in the North-Central region, consolidating its grip on a zone traditionally regarded as a key electoral battleground.

Sources close to the Plateau governor revealed that the move followed months of intense consultations, political manoeuvring, and behind-the-scenes negotiations, amid deepening crises within the PDP. A senior political adviser to the governor had earlier hinted that Mutfwang was weighing his options, citing internal wrangling, leadership instability, and factional battles rocking the opposition party.

The defection brings to an end weeks of speculation and political suspense that had gripped Plateau State and the national political scene.

Back home, reactions have been mixed. While some APC stalwarts in Plateau initially opposed Mutfwang’s entry—fearing a disruption of entrenched power structures—others welcomed the move, arguing that it would broaden the party’s appeal, consolidate its grassroots strength, and enhance its electoral prospects in future contests.

The PDP, already grappling with a wave of defections and internal disarray, is yet to issue an official response to Mutfwang’s departure. However, party insiders and analysts have consistently blamed persistent leadership dysfunction, unresolved factional disputes, and loss of internal cohesion for the steady exit of top figures.

Mutfwang’s decision is the latest in a growing list of defections that signal a major political realignment ahead of 2027. Only weeks ago, Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara also crossed over to the APC, citing alignment with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s governance philosophy and political direction.

Political observers say the steady influx of opposition governors into the APC underscores a shifting power balance and sets the stage for an increasingly intense contest as Nigeria inches closer to the next election cycle.