Gov Mutfwang’s entry to APC will strengthen Plateau state – VP Shettima declares

Vice President Kashim Shettima has declared that the defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau state, to the All Progressives Congress (APC) will strengthen both the state and the ruling party.

Shettima, who represented President Bola Tinubu, spoke on Tuesday at a reception held at the Jos Polo Field to formally welcome Mutfwang into the APC.

The vice-president described Mutfwang’s decision as a demonstration of unity, progress and collaboration.

He said the move would position Plateau state for accelerated development through closer alignment with the federal government.

Shettima also commended Simon Bako Lalong, senator representing Plateau south, for what he described as exceptional leadership of the APC in the state.

He said Lalong, the immediate past governor, “nurtured the party with purpose and dedication, making it acceptable in Plateau and attractive to politicians from other parties.”

Shettima praised Lalong’s humility, wisdom and political maturity, particularly his decision to hand over party leadership in the state to Mutfwang in line with the APC constitution.

Senate President Godswill Akpabio also welcomed Governor Mutfwang into the APC.

Akpabio expressed optimism that the development would usher in peace, progress and poverty reduction in Plateau state.

He paid tribute to Lalong, describing his leadership as instrumental in giving the APC a firm footing in the state.

Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, described Mutfwang’s defection as a welcome development.

Abbas urged party members to work together in unity and resist divisive tendencies.

Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, national chairman of the APC, said he was pleased to formally receive Mutfwang into the ruling party, noting that Mutfwang was his opponent during the 2023 governorship election.

He expressed confidence that renewed unity would translate into rapid development for Plateau state and massive electoral support for Tinubu in 2027.

Speaking after receiving the APC flag, Mutfwang thanked Tinubu, Shettima, the APC leadership, Lalong and other party stakeholders for accepting him and his supporters.

Mutfwang said his decision to join the APC was not to take over the party structure but to add value and work collaboratively with stakeholders.

He said he was committed to ensuring the success of the APC and the re-election of Tinubu in 2027.

Mutfwang paid tribute to Lalong for relinquishing party leadership without rancour, describing it as a demonstration of courage, wisdom and humility.