From Tongnaan Bawa, Jos
Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday described Plateau State as a symbol of Nigeria’s unity as Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang formally defected from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Jos.
Speaking at the decamping ceremony, Shettima said the move marked a historic step toward national cohesion and political realignment ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“Plateau reminds us that unity is not built on sameness, but on shared purpose,” he said, recalling the state’s role in Nigeria’s history and its contributions to peace and reconciliation.
The Vice President paid tribute to former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, and other Plateau-born leaders and military officers, noting that their sacrifices helped preserve the nation during critical moments, including the civil war.
“Nigeria survived not by conquest, but by healing,” Shettima said.
He added that Plateau’s entry into the APC reflected the party’s commitment to being a truly national platform, praising the state’s influence in politics, commerce, scholarship, arts and peacebuilding.
Shettima also highlighted Plateau’s legacy of leadership, referencing figures such as Solomon Lar, Fidelis Tapgun, Joshua Dariye, Pauline Tallen and Simon Bako Lalong, whom he said shaped inclusive governance in the country.
According to him, the emergence of Nentawe Yilwatda as APC National Chairman further underscored Plateau’s relevance in national leadership.
Welcoming Mutfwang, Shettima described the governor as “a force for unity and a proven change-maker,” citing his administration’s efforts in peacebuilding, renewable energy for health centres, agriculture, transport, education and youth empowerment.
“We are proud to welcome you aboard the APC train,” he said.
In his remarks, APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, said the party was now stronger and more united on the Plateau.
“There must be no tribal or religious difference; we must move in one direction as one people,” Yilwatda said, adding that the APC broom symbolised collective strength against division, corruption and injustice.
For his part, Governor Mutfwang described the day as historic, saying his decision to join the APC would reposition Plateau as a decisive political force.
“It is better to follow the man who knows the road,” he said, pledging support for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s re-election in 2027.
He added that Plateau’s alignment with the APC would strengthen the North-Central’s political voice and end internal rivalries.
“Individually, we cannot sweep, but together, we are effective,” Mutfwang said.
Our correspondent reports that Shettima was accompanied by leaders of the National Assembly led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, members of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and top APC chieftains from across the country, underscoring the party’s full endorsement of the defection and Plateau’s strategic importance to the ruling party.