Lalong APC leadership surrender explained as the former Plateau governor says his decision was driven by peace, unity and party cohesion
The former Governor of Plateau State, Senator Simon Lalong, has explained why he relinquished his position as leader of the All Progressives Congress, APC, in the state to his successor, Governor Caleb Mutfwang, stating that the decision was driven by the need to promote unity and stability within the party.
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Senator Lalong, who represents Plateau South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, made the clarification during an interaction with select journalists in Jos on Wednesday, 7 May 2026.
He said his decision reflected the APC’s core principle of cohesion and collective progress, particularly following political realignments in the state.
Before Governor Mutfwang’s defection from the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, to the APC in December 2025, Senator Lalong was regarded as the undisputed leader of the party in Plateau State, having previously played a central role in its growth and consolidation.
With the governor’s return to the ruling party, the internal leadership structure shifted, prompting a redefinition of roles within the state chapter.
Senator Lalong said he saw no reason to retain the leadership position once Governor Mutfwang formally joined the party, describing the move as a natural step in the interest of harmony.
“The governor indicated that he was coming back to the APC, and without any resistance, as was done in so many states, we accepted him,” he said.
He added that his decision to step aside was also a gesture of goodwill aimed at ensuring a smooth integration of the governor into the party structure.
“I feel honoured and dignified that today, Plateau State is APC. Therefore, when Governor Mutfwang joined the APC, one of the first things I did to welcome him was to say, ‘I surrender the leadership to you,’ so that he could be comfortable,” Lalong stated.
He further explained that political tradition often places governors at the centre of party leadership within their respective states, making the transition consistent with established practice.
According to him, the decision was not a withdrawal from political influence but a deliberate effort to strengthen unity and prevent internal conflict within the APC in Plateau State.
Senator Lalong also used the occasion to confirm his intention to seek re election to the Senate, shortly after obtaining his nomination form, signalling his continued participation in national politics.
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The development highlights ongoing political adjustments within Plateau State following recent defections and realignments that have reshaped party leadership dynamics.
