The Plateau State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has welcomed Governor Caleb Mutfwang following his defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), pledging to give him full support as he begins a new political chapter.

This development comes despite the party’s earlier strong opposition to the governor’s move. Prior to his defection, the APC had openly resisted the possibility of Mutfwang joining its ranks.

At a stakeholders’ meeting in Jos, party elders had previously declared their determination to block the governor’s entry into the APC. Similarly, the party’s women’s wing, led by Mrs. Elizabeth Yerse, organised a rally rejecting the idea, while various youth groups also held press conferences to express their disapproval.

However, following Governor Mutfwang’s official defection on Thursday, the state chapter of the APC has shifted its position, describing his decision as a positive development that would benefit the party and the state in the long run.

Speaking to journalists on Friday, the APC Publicity Secretary in Plateau State, Shittu Bamaiyi—who had been one of the most vocal critics of the move—described the governor’s defection as one of the best things to happen to the party at the state level.

Bamaiyi said the party was not surprised by Mutfwang’s decision, noting that the APC remains an inclusive, non-discriminatory platform open to all qualified Nigerians.

“We are not surprised by the governor’s decision to join the APC, and we are ready to give him all the support he needs to succeed,” he said.

He stressed that joining a political party is a fundamental right of every Nigerian citizen and that no one should be denied that right.

“While some people may feel unhappy, others have the right to be pleased. We are happy that Governor Mutfwang has joined the APC. He will be a great asset, not only to the Plateau chapter but also at the national level. Whether one likes it or not, our strength as a party has increased,” Bamaiyi stated.

He added that the governor’s experience in party politics would help him integrate smoothly, expressing confidence that Mutfwang would carry all party stakeholders along.

“Governor Mutfwang is not new to party politics. He knows what to do, and we expect him to work inclusively. He is welcome to the APC, and we will give him the necessary support,” he concluded.