The APC Like Minds Political Forum has denounced the recent endorsement of Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang, for the 2027 elections by Alhaji Saleh Zazzaga, who identifies himself as Chairman of the North Central Zone Stakeholders Forum of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

In a statement issued after an emergency meeting held in Jos, the forum described Zazzaga’s endorsement as “reckless, malicious, and self-serving.” The group said the move was a calculated attempt to damage the reputation of the APC both at the state and national levels and undermine ongoing efforts to reposition the party in Plateau State.

According to the forum, Zazzaga acted without the consent or backing of the APC at any level, adding that the party has never entertained the idea of endorsing an opposition governor. They alleged that his statement was driven by desperation and aimed at drawing attention for personal gains.

The APC Like Minds Forum reaffirmed its confidence in the leadership of Senator Simon Bako Lalong and the Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda. The group praised their inclusive leadership style, which it said had contributed to unity and development within the party.

The forum also pointed out that a competent court had previously ruled that the North Central APC Stakeholders Forum lacked the legal standing to speak on behalf of the party, as it is neither registered nor recognized.

“It is puzzling that someone like Zazzaga, who reportedly did not support the APC during the 2023 general elections, would now be advocating for the endorsement of a PDP governor,” the statement read. “The APC in Plateau State has numerous credible and capable individuals ready to contest in 2027.”

The group commended Professor Yilwatda for reforms that have positively impacted Nigerians and lauded the Plateau APC State Executive under Hon. Rufus Bature for constituting a three-member committee to investigate Zazzaga’s actions. They urged the committee to take appropriate disciplinary measures if he is found guilty of violating party rules.

The forum further criticized Zazzaga for what it described as a history of controversial behavior, referencing his previous call for APC National Chairman Abdullahi Ganduje to resign, only to later support him under questionable circumstances.

Calling on party members and the public to disregard Zazzaga’s endorsement, the forum described it as a distraction by individuals attempting to sow discord within the party. They reaffirmed their commitment to reclaiming what they called the APC’s “stolen mandate” in 2027.

Signed:
Alh. Habibu Musa Sati
National Secretary, APC Like Minds Political Forum
Date: May 29, 2025