I Never Called For Mutfwang’s Resignation!” — Jang Slams APC Defection Claims

Former Plateau State Governor Jonah Jang has denied reports suggesting he demanded the resignation of Governor Caleb Mutfwang after the latter’s defection to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued by his media consultant, Clinton Garuba, Jang described the claims as false and misleading, clarifying that he made no such call during a recent meeting of Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) stakeholders.

The elder statesman explained that his remarks at the meeting were limited to criticising the growing culture of political defections, not targeting Mutfwang personally.

“I never asked Governor Mutfwang to resign because he left the PDP for the APC,” Jang said. “I urge the people of Plateau State to ignore the report and continue to support Governor Mutfwang, who was duly elected by the people.”

Meanwhile, the North-Central APC Forum has formally welcomed Mutfwang into the ruling party, describing his defection from the PDP as a positive development for Plateau State.

In a statement issued in Abuja on Monday, January 5, and signed by its chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, the Forum said it played a key role in facilitating the governor’s move to the APC and expressed confidence that his entry would strengthen the party in the North-Central region.

According to the group, its support for Mutfwang’s defection was driven by the belief that he would thrive in a political environment focused on unity, peace and development.

“We warmly welcome Governor Caleb Mutfwang into the APC family, where ethnic and religious divisions are set aside in favour of unity and progress,” the statement said.

The Forum added that it backed the governor because of its conviction that he has the best interests of Plateau State at heart, while cautioning him against retaining individuals who promote divisive ethnic or religious agendas.

It urged Mutfwang to run an inclusive administration, unite the people of the state and work closely with President Bola Tinubu, particularly in addressing lingering security challenges.

The APC stakeholders also encouraged the governor to assert full authority over his government, resist undue influence and align with the Renewed Hope Agenda of the Tinubu administration.

The Forum disclosed that it faced opposition and intimidation during its campaign to bring Mutfwang into the APC but remained committed because of its belief in his leadership qualities.

It concluded by expressing optimism that the governor’s presence in the APC would boost the party’s prospects ahead of the 2027 general elections, including its pledge to deliver six million votes for President Tinubu.