Jos, January 1, 2026 – Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has officially resigned his membership from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), the platform on which he was elected governor in the 2023 general elections. The resignation, effective immediately, was communicated through a personally signed letter dated December 29, 2025, and addressed to the PDP Ward Chairman of Ampang West Ward in Mangu Local Government Area, Mr. Dasjak Sunday Longyot (or Longyol in some reports).
The letter, which was acknowledged and received by the ward chairman on December 30, 2025, marks the end of months of intense speculation about the governor's political future. In the brief but gracious note, Governor Mutfwang expressed profound gratitude to the PDP for providing him the platform to participate in Nigeria's democratic process and ascend to the state's highest office.
“I write to formally notify you of my resignation from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) with immediate effect,” the letter reads. “I sincerely appreciate the PDP for providing me the political platform to participate in the democratic process. I acknowledge the support of party leaders, members, and supporters at all levels during my time in the party, and I remain grateful for the trust reposed in me.”
Explaining his decision, the governor stated: “Given the realities of the moment and guided by my commitment to purposeful leadership, clarity of direction, and service delivery, I am compelled to seek an alternative political platform.” He concluded by extending “the assurances of my highest regards” to the party leadership.
While the letter does not specify the alternative platform, widespread reports indicate that Mutfwang is poised to formally defect to the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC). This follows an announcement on December 18, 2025, by APC National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda—a native of Plateau State—during the party's 14th National Caucus meeting at the State House in Abuja. Yilwatda described Mutfwang's impending move as a “strategic gain” for the APC, consolidating its dominance in the North-Central geopolitical zone.
The resignation has sent ripples through Nigeria's political landscape, particularly as it further weakens the PDP, which has seen several high-profile defections in recent years, including governors from other states who have joined the APC. Political analysts view Mutfwang's exit as linked to ongoing internal crises within the PDP at the national level, including leadership disputes and structural challenges that have plagued the opposition party.
Mutfwang, a lawyer by profession, assumed office in May 2023 after a contentious election that saw him emerge victorious under the PDP banner. His administration has focused on security, infrastructure development, and peace-building in a state historically prone to ethno-religious conflicts. Supporters argue that aligning with the federal ruling party could unlock more resources and support from the central government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Reactions to the development have been mixed. PDP stakeholders in Plateau State have yet to issue an official response, but sources within the party express disappointment, viewing the move as a setback ahead of future elections. Conversely, APC leaders in the state and North-Central zone have welcomed the development, with some pledging full support to ensure the governor's success in his new political journey.
As of January 1, 2026, no formal defection ceremony has been announced, though reports suggest it could occur soon, potentially strengthening APC's grip on the region. This shift underscores the fluid nature of Nigerian politics, where alignments often prioritize governance deliverables over party loyalty.
The governor's decision comes at a time when Plateau State continues to grapple with security challenges, economic recovery, and developmental projects. Observers will closely monitor how this political realignment impacts service delivery and inter-party relations in the state.
