In a significant political development, the North-Central All Progressives Congress Forum has thrown its support behind President Bola Tinubu and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang for their respective second terms.
The announcement came after an expanded stakeholders’ meeting held on Friday night, as detailed in a statement issued on Saturday by the forum chairman, Saleh Zazzaga.
The forum’s statement highlighted its decision to back the Green Cap Movement, a political initiative linked with Governor Mutfwang, for the 2027 Plateau governorship election. “We have decided to adopt the Green Cap Movement in Plateau because we believe the time is now,” the statement said. Notably, although Mutfwang is a member of the opposition PDP, the forum commended his governance and insisted on supporting his continued leadership.
Simultaneously, the forum reiterated its endorsement of President Tinubu’s second-term ambition, praising his “exceptional performance.” The statement also urged Governor Mutfwang to consider joining the APC, arguing that such a move would be advantageous for both the governor and Plateau State.
Responding to criticisms that the Green Cap Movement is exclusive to the PDP, the forum dismissed these claims as unfounded. It clarified, “The Green Cap is not a symbol of any particular political party. It represents a mindset and the people, not a platform. Its slogan, ‘The Time is Now,’ is a universal call for reform and accountability.”
The forum further demanded the withdrawal of a statement by the Rufus Bature-led Plateau APC executive, which had condemned the forum’s adoption of the Green Cap Movement. It also disputed claims that the forum lacks recognition within the APC, affirming its official registration and status as a national-level body representing North-Central stakeholders.
The statement concluded with a critique of the Plateau APC executive committee’s performance, blaming it for the party’s poor showing in the 2023 elections.