Istifanus Mwansat says Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang was not arm-twisted to join APC, describing the defection as voluntary, strategic, and widely supported
Former Speaker of the Plateau State House of Assembly, Istifanus Mwansat, has insisted that Governor Caleb Mutfwang was not coerced into joining the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).
Also read: APC Forum Welcomes Mutfwang, Urges Unity and Loyalty
Mwansat made the remarks, following Governor Mutfwang’s formal defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the APC.
“Plateau people are with Governor Mutfwang; he was not arm-twisted to join APC. His defection to APC was the best. He does not need an automatic ticket because the people are with him. Any time, any day Mutfwang contests elections, twice or thrice, he will win,” Mwansat said.
He added that the move was voluntary and strategic, reflecting the governor’s political acumen.
“Why would anybody attempt to coerce Governor Mutfwang to move into the APC? Why would anybody arm-twist him? There’s basically no reason. This is out of his own volition,” Mwansat explained.
The former Speaker described the decision as a calculated effort to avoid political risks and align with a platform that provides stability.
“The dynamics of politics, of course, are manifested because you cannot continue to be dogmatic or static when you notice that it is evidently clear that the platform on which you were elected is relatively sick… Therefore, the Governor as a wise person, as a good leader, has seen danger ahead. His decision to move into the APC becomes the best option for us in the circumstance,” he said.
Also read: Plateau Governor Caleb Mutfwang Defects to APC
Mwansat’s comments underline broad support for Mutfwang’s defection and the strategic nature of his political realignment ahead of upcoming elections.
