The North-Central All Progressives Congress Forum has denounced protests held in Jos, Plateau State, against the potential defection of Governor Caleb Mutfwang to the APC. The forum, which has been actively campaigning for Mutfwang to join the party, described the protests as undemocratic and unconstitutional.

On Saturday, some APC members in Plateau State staged a protest during an event to receive new defectors, carrying placards that read “Mutfwang is not welcome” in the party. The North-Central APC Forum condemned the action, stating that it is every individual’s right to join a political party of their choice.

The forum’s chairman, Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, emphasized that Mutfwang’s potential membership in the APC would be beneficial for the party, particularly ahead of the 2027 elections. Zazzaga urged President Bola Tinubu to intervene and call the Plateau chapter leaders to order, as their actions may hinder the party’s progress.

The forum also criticized the Plateau APC leaders for opposing Mutfwang’s defection, alleging that their motivations are selfish and driven by a desire to contest elections in 2027. The leaders’ actions, according to the forum, may indirectly work against Tinubu’s re-election bid in 2027.

The North-Central APC Forum has been advocating for Mutfwang to join the party since October, when Plateau State APC leaders passed a resolution opposing his potential defection. The forum argued that the resolution was undemocratic and unconstitutional, as it was passed without the input of all stakeholders.

The forum’s campaign for Mutfwang to join the APC is reportedly backed by influential individuals within the Presidency. The forum has threatened to report the Plateau APC leaders who are blocking Mutfwang’s defection to President Tinubu if they do not desist from their actions.

The developments come as the APC prepares for the 2027 elections, with the party seeking to strengthen its presence in Plateau State. The North-Central APC Forum’s efforts to recruit Mutfwang, a sitting governor, are seen as a strategic move to boost the party’s chances in the state.