APC Forum Tells Yilwatda He Lacks Power to Stop Governor Muftwang’s Planned Defection

The North-Central All Progressives Congress (APC) Forum has declared that the party’s national chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, lacks the authority to prevent Plateau State Governor, Caleb Muftwang, from defecting to the APC.

The Forum, which has openly endorsed the governor’s possible move from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC, expressed concern over what it described as resistance from certain political leaders in Plateau State to the planned defection.

At a stakeholders’ meeting held on October 17, 2025, some Plateau APC leaders debated a motion by former Deputy National Secretary, Barr. Festus Fuanter, opposing Governor Muftwang’s entry into the party.

In a statement issued on Tuesday and signed by the Forum’s Chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, the group suggested that the pushback may be driven by internal political interests. It further stressed that membership decisions begin at the ward level, adding that only the governor’s ward in Mangu holds the authority to admit him.

“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 Forum stated.

The group condemned what it called unnecessary political tension over the governor’s potential crossover and urged party stakeholders to prioritise unity and inclusiveness.

According to the Forum, consultations regarding Muftwang’s possible defection are still ongoing, but the governor enjoys widespread support across Plateau State.

“For over two years, we have encouraged Governor Muftwang to consider joining the APC. Many people in Plateau appreciate his development-focused governance,” the statement added.

The Forum maintained that the APC in Plateau would benefit from an open-door approach that welcomes individuals with strong public backing. It also called on APC leaders in Mangu Ward to formally reach out to the governor if they deem it appropriate.

“The national chairman does not have constitutional powers to prevent any eligible person from joining the APC. Party procedures are clear on this,” it concluded.

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