Plateau and Taraba States PDP Governors is reportedly set to join APC amid 2027 nationwide political realignments in Nigeria.
In a dramatic twist that could reshape Nigeria’s political landscape ahead of the 2027 general elections, fresh reports indicate that the governors of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, and Taraba State, Agbu Kefas, both elected on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), are on the verge of defecting to the All Progressives Congress (APC).
According to insider sources and political analysts cited by Daily Trust, Punch, and The Sun Nigeria, the APC has launched a strategic campaign to lure at least five governors from opposition parties, especially the PDP, in a move dubbed “Hurricane Tinubu.” The push, reportedly spearheaded by high-ranking APC operatives, aims to consolidate power and secure critical political strongholds ahead of the 2027 presidential polls.
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Plateau, Taraba Governors in the Spotlight
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau and Governor Agbu Kefas of Taraba are said to be among the top targets of the APC’s overtures. While both governors have not publicly confirmed any defection plans, sources close to the developments suggest high-level meetings and subtle negotiations have been ongoing.
In Plateau, speculation intensified following Governor Mutfwang’s softened rhetoric towards the federal government and increased contact with key APC figures. However, the PDP in the state has dismissed the claims, labeling them as “mischievous rumours aimed at creating disaffection.”
In Taraba, Governor Kefas’ visible collaboration with the Tinubu administration—most notably his warm reception of First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu during a recent visit—has fueled the defection chatter. Political observers view his body language as signaling an openness to switching sides, though his aides have maintained that he remains loyal to the PDP.
Defection Wave Across the Nation
The reported move by the Plateau and Taraba governors comes amid a wider wave of defections sweeping across the country. Several PDP heavyweights, including sitting lawmakers and former ministers, have already joined the ruling party in what appears to be a strategic alignment with the federal centre.
Analysts argue that first-term governors like Mutfwang and Kefas, who are eligible for re-election in 2027, may be motivated by the desire to secure federal support, development funds, or electoral guarantees in exchange for their loyalty to the APC.
PDP Under Pressure
The PDP, Nigeria’s main opposition party, has struggled in recent months to maintain unity and discipline within its ranks. Despite a public declaration by the PDP Governors’ Forum that its members will not join any opposition coalition or consider a merger, the party continues to hemorrhage key figures to the ruling APC.
Meanwhile, the APC has been emboldened by recent gains and is reportedly offering strategic incentives—including ministerial appointments, federal projects, and political protection—to opposition figures willing to defect.
What This Means
If Governors Mutfwang and Kefas do indeed cross over to the APC, it would be a major blow to the PDP’s efforts to rebuild after its 2023 electoral loss. It would also significantly strengthen the APC’s presence in the North Central and North East regions, giving President Tinubu a stronger foothold for re-election or succession planning in 2027.
For now, both governors remain silent on the matter but political watchers say the silence is deafening.
This is a developing story. More updates to follow.
