Shettima, Yilwatda, Akpabio To Receive Mutfwang, Others Into APC

National attention has shifted to Jos, the Plateau State capital, ahead of the formal reception for Plateau State governor, Caleb Mutfwang, into the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), scheduled to hold at the Jos Polo Field today.

LEADERSHIP reports that Vice President Kassim Shetima is expected to receive the governor into the APC. He will be supported by the party’s national chairman, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, the Senate President Godswill Akpabio, Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas and some progressive governors

The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee and the former Deputy Speaker of the Federal House of Representatives, Rt. Hon Idris Ahmed Wase, while briefing newsmen, said the State is witnessing a profound and historic political realignment, one that signals a clear transition toward unity, inclusive leadership, and collective responsibility.

According to him, “This defining moment in our political evolution reflects a growing consensus that governance must transcend partisan boundaries and be firmly anchored on collaboration, stability, and the delivery of tangible dividends of democracy to the people.

He maintained that this realignment is steadily creating a conducive environment for accelerated infrastructural development, economic expansion, improved security architecture, and increased social investments, developments that directly touch the lives of ordinary citizens in both urban and rural communities across Plateau State.

“At the centre of this transformation stands the Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barrister Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, a leader widely acknowledged as visionary, principled, calm, and people-oriented. On Monday, December 29, 2025, Governor Mutfwang formally resigned from the People’s Democratic Party (PDP), citing the realities of the moment and his unwavering commitment to purposeful leadership, clarity of direction, and effective service delivery.

Wase also pointed out that barely days later, on Friday, January 2, 2026, His Excellency took another decisive step by aligning with the Progressive Governors under the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In doing so, he reaffirmed his conviction that “The Time Is Now” for the Renewed Hope Agenda to take firm root and flourish in Plateau State.

The former Deputy Speaker added that it is bold and strategic decision has been widely interpreted as the creation of a broad, unifying political platform, one that places the people above party interests, bridges long-standing political and identity divides, and positions Plateau State to attract large-scale development initiatives capable of delivering improved road networks, job creation, enhanced security, and better living standards.

Wase further argued that in recognition of the significance of this historic transition, the Central Planning Committee, under his  Chairmanship and the Deputy Chairman, Distinguished Senator Simon Mwadkon, former Senate Minority Leader, and other members have been working assiduously, day and night, to ensure a befitting, well-coordinated, and memorable grand reception for the Governor.

“In addition, various sub-committees have swung into action, putting in place all necessary logistical, security, media, protocol, and crowd-management arrangements to guarantee a smooth and successful event.

According to him, since the Central Planning Committee’s inauguration and the official announcement of the reception date, heightened interest, anticipation, and positive anxiety have enveloped the political space.

“The people of Plateau State have been eagerly awaiting the D-day, underscoring the widespread acceptance and goodwill that this political realignment has generated.

While reflecting on the over two years of Governor Mutfwang’s administration said the State has no doubt experienced leadership defined by transparency, humility, selflessness, and steadfast commitment to the public good.

“His consultative approach, dignified conduct, and calm disposition have earned him respect and admiration across political divides, positioning his leadership as a beacon of hope for a united and progressive Plateau State.

He assured citizens and visitors of robust security arrangements, effective traffic control, and crowd management measures in anticipation of a massive turnout of party faithful, political leaders, youth groups, women’s associations, and supporters from across the state and beyond.

With the level of preparation so far put in place, the occasion promises to be colourful, peaceful, historic, and truly reflective of Plateau State’s renewed political relevance on the national stage.

Wase stressed that beyond the ceremony, many believe that the emerging political union under Governor Mutfwang’s leadership will foster a people-centred political culture, one that promotes peace, inclusiveness, cooperation, and development; attracts public and private investments; and ensures that the dividends of democracy reach the ordinary man and woman in every community across Plateau State.

He urged residents, party supporters, and well-wishers to conduct themselves peacefully, lawfully, and responsibly, in a manner that reflects the enduring values of unity, civility, and peaceful coexistence for which Plateau State is proudly known.

“This grand reception belongs to all Plateau people, and its success depends largely on our collective commitment to orderliness, mutual respect, and cooperation with security agencies and event officials”, he said.