Pressure intensifies as coalition demands seamless Mutfwang defection to ruling APC

The Coalition for Democratic Sustainability and Good Governance (CDSGG) on Friday called for a seamless and peaceful transition should Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang eventually defect to the All Progressives Congress (APC).

The group made the appeal during a press conference held at the Press Centre in Jos, Plateau State.

Nuredeen Inuwa, the coalition’s spokesperson and a former Senior Special Assistant in the state who read the text on behalf of the group said the briefing was convened to calm rising political tension and to emphasise unity as discussions intensify over the governor’s possible move to the ruling party.

The group said the coalition’s focus remains the peace, stability and long-term progress of Plateau State.

They noted that reactions to the governor’s possible defection have been mixed across political divides, with some supporting the development while others have expressed concerns or outright opposition, saying Plateau State must approach the moment with maturity and avoid deepening existing political divisions.

“We are here to make a clarion call for calm, understanding and political magnanimity.Let us rise above bitterness and partisan grudges and embrace this opportunity to reposition Plateau State for greater development and stronger national relevance”; The group said.

Read also: Intrigues deepen as signals suggest Mutfwang drifting to APC amid turmoil

According to them, “Governor Mutfwang’s realignment is a pragmatic step aimed at strengthening Plateau’s relationship with the Federal Government. In the realities of Nigerian politics, alignment with the centre often determines the quality and speed of development a state receives”.

The coalition argued that while PDP and APC members in the state hold differing opinions, all sides have valid arguments rooted in loyalty, democratic ethics and political principles. However, it urged party leaders and supporters to prioritise the overall interest of the state over partisan considerations.

They cautioned residents to avoid inflaming tensions, especially through social media, and instead embrace optimism as the state navigates the political development.

The coalition proposed what it called a “covenant of transition,” urging elders in both parties to facilitate a smooth process free of rancour and public confrontation. The group also called for a joint communiqué affirming a bipartisan commitment to a “Plateau Development Compact”.

The coalition further appealed for the protection of the political space, insisting that no citizen should be victimized regardless of whether they remain in PDP, move to APC or belong to any other party. It warned that political intolerance could undermine investor confidence and disrupt governance.

CDSGG urged elders, youth groups, women’s organisations, civil society actors and traditional institutions to unite behind the best interest of the state.

The coalition noted that Plateau must choose the legacy of unity, stability and cooperation as the political situation evolves.