Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, has disclosed that President Bola Tinubu personally invited him to leave the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and join the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

Speaking shortly after his defection on Thursday, Mutfwang explained that after months of consultations and personal reflection, he decided to make the move in the best interest of Plateau State. He stressed that his decision was not for personal gain but out of respect for President Tinubu, who has shown a particular concern for the state and its challenges.

Mutfwang revealed that although the President had extended the invitation multiple times, he had initially declined.

“I pay my respects to President Tinubu for honouring our earlier decisions not to move to the APC while still maintaining a cordial relationship with us,” he said during a meeting with political appointees and stakeholders at the Government House in Jos.

He added that while other influential figures, including APC governors, had also encouraged him to switch parties, he remained firm in his decision until recent developments within the PDP at the national level.

“Until recently, when it became evident that the PDP has structural problems at the national level, the need to decamp was not pressing. While we have no major issues at the state level, our efforts are limited without a strong national structure,” he said.

“The risks of remaining in the PDP are too high to gamble with the mandate given by the people of Plateau. There is no certainty about when or how the national crisis will end, or what losses may result. Considering the emotional strain our people have endured, we cannot risk repeating such experiences.”

The governor noted that although other options were available, historical lessons had taught him that it is one thing to win elections and another to ensure that votes translate into meaningful outcomes.

“Despite some challenges with Plateau APC, we cannot overlook the cordiality and support extended by the Tinubu-led administration. Since the President did not pressure us to join the APC earlier, it was reasonable to consider the move now,” he said.

Mutfwang also hinted at upcoming developments for Plateau State, emphasizing that the defection could lead to appointments and benefits that would positively impact the state. “There is already good news to be announced soon. Stay tuned,” he added.