The North Central All Progressives Congress Forum has declared that the party’s national chairman, Prof Nentawe Yilwatda, has no authority to prevent Plateau State Governor, Caleb Muftwang, from defecting to the APC.
The Forum said it was troubled by what it described as growing resistance among some Plateau political leaders toward the governor’s possible move from the Peoples Democratic Party to the APC.
The dispute followed a stakeholders meeting held on October 17, 2025, where Plateau APC leaders debated a motion sponsored by former Deputy National Secretary of the party, Barrister Festus Fuanter. The motion opposed the idea of the governor joining the APC. However, in a statement issued on Tuesday, the Forum argued that such opposition appears to stem from personal political interests within the state rather than due process.
According to the Forum’s Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, only the governor’s ward in Mangu has the constitutional authority to decide on admitting him into the party. “The national chairman has no role in determining whether Governor Caleb Muftwang joins the APC. Admission into the party begins at the ward level,” the statement read. The group stressed that party procedures must be followed and not influenced by internal power struggles.
The Forum further criticised the tension surrounding the governor’s potential defection, urging stakeholders to remain open minded and prioritise unity. It noted that the governor’s decision is still undergoing consultations, but insisted that he enjoys significant support from residents of Plateau State. The Forum added that many citizens appreciate his development driven leadership.
“For over two years, we have encouraged Governor Muftwang to consider joining the APC. Many people in Plateau appreciate his development focused governance,” the Forum stated. It argued that Plateau APC stands to gain from a more inclusive posture that welcomes individuals who have broad public backing and proven administrative capacity.
The group concluded by urging APC leaders in Mangu Ward to extend an invitation to the governor if they find it appropriate, insisting that internal disagreements should not block lawful procedures. It emphasised that the national chairman does not have the constitutional power to stop any eligible Nigerian from joining the party, stating that the rules guiding membership processes are clear and binding.
