The Plateau State Government has dismissed persistent rumours claiming that Governor Caleb Mutfwang has defected to the Young Progressives Party.

In a statement released on Friday, the Director of Press and Public Affairs, Government House, Dr Gyang Bere, described the claim as “a blatant lie, a shameless concoction peddled by desperate mischief makers” aimed at creating confusion and misleading citizens.

The statement reaffirmed that Mutfwang remains committed to his duties and “has not defected to any party.”

Bere further stressed: “Governor Mutfwang has not defected to the Young Progressives Party.

“Where and when there is any change in status, be assured that Governor Mutfwang will utilise official and verified communication channels to inform the people of Plateau State and all well-wishers.”

The government called on supporters and residents to disregard the false claim and stay focused on the governor’s development projects and people-centered initiatives.

“We urge supporters, well-wishers, and all patriotic citizens of Plateau State to disregard this falsehood in its entirety. Remain steadfast, vigilant, and united in the collective mission of safeguarding and advancing the Plateau project,” the statement said.

It added: “Rest assured that under Governor Mutfwang’s purposeful and visionary leadership, Plateau State remains safe, stable, and steadily rising brighter, stronger, and more resilient.”

Rumours of the governor’s defection have persisted for months, with reactions split among members of the All Progressives Congress—some welcoming the alleged move while others rejected it, our correspondent reports.

However, Mutfwang, elected on the platform of the People’s Democratic Party has again on Friday insisted that he remains in the party.