Hon. Istifanus Mwansat has reacted to rumours suggesting Governor Caleb Mutfwang is preparing to dump the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) for the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Mwansat, a former Speaker of the Plateau Assembly and now Senior Special Adviser on Political Matters and Special Duties, dismissed the speculation, calling it unnecessary and misleading.

Speaking in an interview, he addressed the recent wave of defections rocking the PDP and the pressure on top party figures across the country.

According to him, political movement is driven largely by fear, ambition, and the belief that “if they remain outside the ruling party, their chances of being counted politically are slim.”

He insisted that many politicians are running to the ruling party for survival rather than ideology, describing it as a “safe haven” for those hoping their “sins will be forgiven.”

Mwansat also expressed concern over the country’s political culture, saying hunger and poverty have weakened democratic values and shifted voter decision-making to “the depth of the contestant’s pocket.”

On whether defections could weaken the PDP ahead of 2027, he maintained that the party still has solid structures at the grassroots and will “bounce back and put up a strong fight” in the next general election.

When asked about claims that Nigerian politics lacks solid ideology, he agreed, stating that party-switching has become too common, especially among lawmakers who “violate the same laws they make.”

Responding to repeated claims that Governor Mutfwang may join the APC, Mwansat insisted the governor has made his position clear.

The Aide noted that Mutfwang has repeatedly said he is not leaving the PDP, stressing that his political direction is guided by God and the people of Plateau.

“The governor has consistently re-emphasised that he is not moving and will not move… the governor is not moving,” he said.

He also reacted to reports that some APC members had already rejected Mutfwang, describing such statements as empty politics.

According to him, the governor never indicated interest in joining the APC for anyone to “reject” him.

Mwansat said the APC in Plateau is only trying to push a narrative to create confusion, adding that if Mutfwang ever wished to defect, “reasonable APC members would be excited.”

Commenting on internal party grievances, he acknowledged some PDP members are unhappy but urged patience, noting that the governor is carrying a heavy burden as the only elected PDP official left standing in the state after court rulings overturned earlier victories.

He added that politics is dynamic, and while some individuals leave, others are returning silently. The senior special adviser to the governor noted that two former APC lawmakers recently held talks to rejoin the PDP.

On the relationship between the State Assembly and the governor, he described it as cordial, saying both sides are focused on “the Plateau project” rather than partisan rivalry.