APC Approaches PDP’s 2003 Milestone As Governors Continue To Defect From Opposition Parties

The All Progressives Congress (APC) is rapidly approaching a historic milestone, potentially controlling up to 30 of Nigeria’s 36 states, following the recent defection of Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and indications that Kano State Governor Abba Yusuf may soon join the ruling party.

According to Ireporter Online, Mutfwang formally resigned from the PDP in a letter dated December 29, 2025, a move made public on January 1, 2026, paving the way for his registration with the APC, expected to be completed today. Once finalized, this transition will bring the number of APC governors to 28, equaling the record previously set by the PDP after the 2003 general elections.

Unlike the PDP’s expansion post-2003, the APC’s growth—rising from 20 governors following the 2023 elections—has been largely driven by defections from opposition parties. This surge has raised concerns over power concentration and the possibility of one-party dominance.

Speculation continues around Kano State, where Governor Abba Yusuf has reportedly hinted at an imminent defection. If he joins, APC control would rise to 29 states. Additionally, first-term governors such as Dauda Lawal of Zamfara State (PDP) and Alex Otti of Abia State (Labour Party) are reportedly considering moves to the ruling party, which could push APC influence past 30 states. In Taraba State, Governor Agbu Kefas has announced his departure from the PDP and plans to formally join the APC later this month.

In a similar trend, Osun State Governor Ademola Adeleke, who recently moved from the PDP to the Accord Party, reportedly explored joining the APC but was blocked due to internal party dynamics. Mutfwang’s defection follows announcements from the APC National Chairman, Nentawe Yilwatda, about the governor’s impending move. Despite some initial resistance within Plateau State, interventions from the Presidency reportedly cleared the way for his transition.

In his resignation letter, Mutfwang cited the need for “purposeful leadership, clarity of direction, and effective service delivery” as reasons for leaving the PDP. He expressed gratitude to the party and its members for their support, while emphasizing that his move aligns with the developmental goals of Plateau State and the Federal Government. His office confirmed that he remains committed to inclusive governance, unity, and breaking barriers of division as essential tools for sustainable development.

Mutfwang is scheduled to receive his APC membership card at Victoria Gowon Hall, Government House, Rayfield, before meeting party leaders at the APC State Secretariat in Jos.

Political analysts view the surge of defections as indicative of structural weaknesses in Nigeria’s political system. Prof. Hassan Saliu, President of the Nigerian Political Science Association, noted that Nigerian politics is heavily driven by personal interests and power retention, warning that excessive party dominance could undermine checks and balances and weaken accountability. Prof. Gbade Ojo of the University of Ilorin echoed concerns, emphasizing that internal conflicts and voter alienation could intensify as defections grow.

Experts argue that opposition parties must strengthen internal cohesion to provide effective checks on the ruling party. Dr. Edun Abdulkareem, Head of Political Science at the University of Ilorin, stressed that political recruitment is a legitimate practice but cautioned that the absence of a strong opposition could threaten democratic governance.

Observers note that the APC’s rise from 20 governors after 2023 to potentially 30 by early 2026 highlights its rapid consolidation of power. Coupled with a two-thirds majority in both chambers of the National Assembly, largely fueled by defections from the PDP and Labour Party, the ruling party now wields unprecedented influence over national policymaking. While opposition forces such as the African Democratic Congress (ADC) may offer some counterbalance, concerns remain that continued defections could weaken oversight and public participation. The APC, however, insists that its growth through persuasion and political recruitment is consistent with democratic competition and does not threaten the country’s democratic framework.