Forum appeals to Plateau governor to align with Tinubu’s vision
The North-Central Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has urged Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, to consider joining the ruling party, saying his defection would accelerate development in the region and strengthen his political influence nationally.
The forum’s chairman, Comrade Kassim Mohammad Zazzaga, made the appeal in Jos on Monday while speaking to journalists after a consultative meeting with APC stakeholders across the North-Central zone. He said the group’s call was based on the governor’s “visible commitment to governance” and his “alignment with President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.”
According to Zazzaga, Mutfwang has shown exceptional administrative capacity since assuming office and should not allow partisan boundaries to limit his contribution to Nigeria’s progress.
“Governor Mutfwang has proven himself as a leader who places people above politics,” Zazzaga said. “The APC is a broad platform where visionary leaders like him can serve Nigeria better. That is why we are appealing to him to come on board now that there is still room for collaboration.”
‘Mutfwang’s leadership has transcended party lines’
The forum’s chairman described Mutfwang as one of the few governors in the opposition who had maintained cordial relations with the Federal Government, adding that his efforts in security, infrastructure, and civil service reforms had earned him respect across political divides.
He noted that such progressive leadership traits made Mutfwang “a natural fit” for the APC’s reform-driven agenda in the North-Central.
“Even from outside the APC, Governor Mutfwang’s performance has been outstanding,” Zazzaga said. “He has brought stability to Plateau and restored confidence in governance. We believe joining the APC will give him the national support he needs to sustain this momentum.”
He added that the governor’s move to the APC would also “unite the Plateau political landscape,” which has remained polarised since the last election.
Forum says defection will strengthen regional influence
Zazzaga argued that Mutfwang’s entry into the APC would not only benefit Plateau State but also boost the North-Central zone’s relevance in national politics.
He said the forum was working with senior APC figures, including ministers and lawmakers from the region, to ensure the zone plays a more decisive role in the 2027 general elections.
“We are building a united political front for the North-Central,” Zazzaga said. “Our goal is to speak with one voice and ensure our region continues to get its fair share of federal projects and appointments. Governor Mutfwang’s inclusion in this alliance would make it stronger and more effective.”
He noted that the North-Central Forum had held similar discussions with other prominent politicians in Nasarawa, Benue, and Kogi States, stressing that “the door remains open for dialogue and collaboration.”
Mutfwang urged to seize opportunity for partnership
The APC forum chair described the current political climate as “ripe for pragmatic alliances,” saying Mutfwang’s early decision to join the ruling party could position him advantageously ahead of the next election cycle.
“Governor Mutfwang should see this as an opportunity to deepen his partnership with the Federal Government and accelerate development in Plateau,” Zazzaga stated. “President Tinubu has shown that he welcomes competent leaders regardless of party affiliation.”
He assured that the APC would “wholeheartedly receive” Mutfwang if he decides to defect, emphasizing that the party values inclusion and merit.
Forum commends Tinubu’s policies, pledges continued support
The North-Central Forum also used the occasion to commend President Bola Tinubu for what it described as “bold and reform-oriented policies” aimed at stabilising the economy and restoring public confidence.
Zazzaga said the group remains fully committed to supporting the president’s administration, particularly in implementing initiatives that empower farmers, youth, and small business owners in the region.
“Under President Tinubu’s leadership, Nigeria is witnessing a gradual transformation,” he said. “We are confident that with unity of purpose and strong regional participation, the Renewed Hope Agenda will succeed.”
The forum’s call has sparked fresh political speculation in Plateau, where observers believe Mutfwang’s growing relationship with key APC figures could signal potential realignments ahead of the next general elections.
While the governor has yet to respond officially to the call, sources close to the Plateau Government House say consultations are ongoing among his advisers on the best approach to manage the political overture.
