Some women who recently took part in a protest opposing the alleged defection of Plateau State Governor, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang, from the Peoples Democratic Party to the All Progressives Congress have admitted they were misled.
According to DDM, the women, who spoke under anonymity to avoid possible victimisation, said they participated without full understanding of the issues involved.
They disclosed that they were mobilised by leaders of the state PDP Women’s Wing under the belief that the action was necessary to protect party interests.
According to the women, the protest was organised in a hurried manner and participants were not properly briefed on its purpose.
Some of them said they were told that the governor had already concluded plans to defect to the ruling party.
They explained that the information given to them created fear and panic about the future of the PDP in Plateau State.
Several of the women claimed they later discovered that the alleged defection narrative was either exaggerated or completely false.
They accused the state Women’s Wing leadership, led by Mrs Elizabeth Yerse, of exploiting their loyalty to the party.
The women said they trusted the organisers and believed the protest was officially sanctioned by the party leadership.
They admitted that many participants simply followed instructions without questioning the authenticity of the claims.
Some of the women revealed that transportation and refreshments were provided to encourage turnout.
Others said they felt pressured to attend for fear of being labelled disloyal or anti-party.
They described the experience as embarrassing after realising they were used to advance internal political agendas.
The protest had drawn public attention after images circulated on social media showing women chanting against the governor.
At the time, the demonstration sparked speculation about a looming political crisis in Plateau State.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang, a member of the PDP, has consistently denied plans to defect to the APC.
His media aides have repeatedly described the defection rumours as false and politically motivated.
Political analysts say such rumours often emerge in states where opposition parties seek to weaken sitting governors.
Plateau State has a long history of intense party rivalry, especially between the PDP and APC.
The PDP regained control of the state in 2023 after defeating the APC in the governorship election.
Governor Mutfwang’s victory was widely seen as a significant comeback for the PDP in North Central Nigeria.
Since assuming office, the governor has faced legal battles, security challenges, and political opposition.
Observers say misinformation and internal party disputes remain common features of Nigerian politics.
Women’s groups are often mobilised for protests because of their visibility and emotional appeal.
Civil society organisations have warned against the manipulation of women for political propaganda.
The women involved in the Plateau protest said they now regret their participation.
They called on political leaders to stop using ordinary citizens as tools for misinformation.
Some of them urged party officials to always provide clear and truthful information before mobilising supporters.
They also appealed for internal reconciliation within the PDP to prevent future misunderstandings.
Political observers say the incident highlights the need for political education at the grassroots level.
They argue that informed participation strengthens democracy and reduces manipulation.
The Plateau incident has renewed debates about ethical conduct within party structures.
As of the time of reporting, the state PDP Women’s Wing leadership had not publicly responded to the allegations.
The development has continued to generate reactions across political circles and social media platforms.