The North Central All Progressives Congress (NC APC) Forum has urged the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, to enhance his response to the humanitarian needs of distressed communities in Plateau State.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its chairman, Saleh Zazzaga, the Forum emphasized the importance of visible and sustained engagement with displaced residents and victims of violence across the state.
The Forum also reiterated its commitment to encouraging Governor Caleb Mutfwang to consider joining the APC, commending his efforts in advancing development in Plateau State, which it described as aligning with progressive governance values.
As the 2027 general elections draw closer, the Forum noted the need for greater unity and proactive leadership within the party to strengthen its position in the state.
It clarified that its observations were aimed at constructive engagement and not intended as criticism, stressing the need for collaborative efforts to address the humanitarian concerns affecting Plateau communities.
“We felt it necessary to speak up for our people, who have been displaced and left without adequate assistance.
“The advice was given in good faith, based on our collective experience in the political space. It was not an attack, as the Minister suggested.”
The group claimed that a lack of responsiveness to such advice played a role in the APC’s electoral losses in the state.
“The 2023 elections were a missed opportunity
In our view, some of the missteps, including failure to rally the party base and perceived mixed messaging during the presidential vote, contributed to APC’s defeat.”
Responding to the Minister’s remarks questioning the Forum’s legitimacy during a magazine programme on Arise Television during the weekend, the group reaffirmed its credentials as a registered APC support body since 2018, noting its wide-reaching membership across the North-Central region, including ex-lawmakers, commissioners, academics, and civil society leaders.
The Forum also clarified its past statements on other APC leaders, stating, “We never attacked Dr. Ganduje,” Zazzaga said. “Our position then was rooted in the zoning principle, which at the time placed the National Chairmanship in the North-Central. Once Dr. Ganduje’s leadership became evident and effective, we aligned with him. That decision preceded his ratification by the party’s NEC.
“Regarding SGF George Akume, our input has been constructive and welcomed. Senator Akume listened to our concerns and worked with us in the interest of the party in the region.”
The Forum also dismissed Yilwatda’s remarks questioning Zazzaga’s APC membership, citing multiple party roles at both state and national levels, including participation in presidential and governorship campaign committees and national summits.
“I was appointed into several campaign committees by Prof. Yilwatda himself. So it is surprising and disappointing for him to cast doubt on my standing within the APC.”
Meanwhile, the Forum announced a withdrawal of a seven-day ultimatum it had earlier issued to the Plateau APC executive led by Hon. Rufus Bature, which had called for reconciliation processes and party expansion initiatives.
“We regret the miscommunication that accompanied the ultimatum and offer our apologies,” the Forum said.
Nonetheless, the Forum maintained its interest in engaging Governor Caleb Mutfwang, who currently governs under the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), in political dialogue.
“We will continue advocating for Governor Mutfwang to consider a return to the APC.
“He has proven political experience and acceptability in the State, and we believe his return could strengthen the party’s prospects in Plateau,” the group noted.
