By Israel Adamu, Jos
Former Plateau State Governor and ex-Senator representing Plateau North, Senator Jonah David Jang, has denied reports claiming he called on Governor Caleb Mutfwang to resign following his alleged defection from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to the All Progressives Congress (APC). In a statement issued on Monday in Jos and signed by his Media Consultant, Comrade Clinton Garuba, Senator Jang described the reports circulating in some print and online media platforms as misleading and taken out of context. He said he never made such a call at any time.
According to the statement, Senator Jang’s attention was drawn to publications suggesting that he demanded Governor Mutfwang’s resignation after the governor’s defection. He stressed that the reports misrepresented his position and distorted comments he made during a recent PDP stakeholders’ meeting.“
For the avoidance of doubt, Senator Jonah Jang did not, at any point, call on Governor Caleb Mutfwang to resign,” the statement said. “His comments were quoted out of context and inaccurately portrayed.”The former governor explained that his remarks during the meeting were directed at a broader political issue, particularly the trend of politicians defecting from one political party to another. He said his comments were a general critique of political defections, not a personal attack on Governor Mutfwang.
Senator Jang noted that his position has always been guided by democratic principles and respect for the mandate freely given to elected officials by the people. He emphasized that criticism of political behaviour should not be misconstrued as a call for resignation or removal from office. The statement further urged media organisations to exercise professionalism and accuracy in reporting political statements, especially on sensitive matters such as defection and governance. It warned that misrepresentation of facts could mislead the public and heighten political tension unnecessarily.
Senator Jang also called on the people of Plateau State to disregard the reports suggesting he asked for Governor Mutfwang’s resignation. He reaffirmed his support for peace, unity, and stability in the state, regardless of party affiliations. He urged residents to continue supporting Governor Caleb Mutfwang in the discharge of his duties, noting that governance should remain focused on delivering development and good leadership to the people of Plateau State.
The clarification comes amid heightened political discussions surrounding defections and party realignments across the country, with Plateau State attracting particular attention in recent days. Political observers say such developments often generate speculation and controversy within party structures. Senator Jang reiterated that his comments were aimed at strengthening democratic values and encouraging political consistency, not undermining the authority or legitimacy of the sitting governor.
