The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to uniting citizens and ensuring their safe return to farmlands to guarantee food security and sovereignty in the state.
Governor Mutfwang made this declaration on Saturday at the 2025 Ron Nation Cultural Festival held at the Mini Stadium in Bokkos Local Government Area.
He emphasized that his administration is intensifying security efforts, particularly in areas vulnerable to attacks, including Bokkos Local Government Area. He reassured citizens that surveillance and security presence are being significantly reinforced.
“We have embarked on an irreversible journey to peace on the Plateau. No one will turn back the hand of the clock. Plateau is a land of peace, and no one will take that away from us. By the grace of God, our story is changing, and the people of Nigeria now recognize Plateau as a peaceful place. We will continue to vigorously pursue this agenda. This year, by God’s grace, our farmers will return to their fields. However, we must organize ourselves and work collectively; no one should go to farm recklessly,” the Governor stated.
Governor Mutfwang sympathized with the people of Bokkos over recent attacks that claimed innocent lives. He urged the community to remain vigilant and proactive in safeguarding their lands, stressing that anyone colluding with enemies to harm communities would be exposed and face the full weight of the law.
“Those who betray our people by providing information to attackers will not know peace. It is our duty to expose such individuals. To those who bring trouble to our land, we say: Enough is enough! This year, Bokkos will not only farm potatoes, but let me make it clear that we now farm only ‘Plateau potatoes,’” he declared.
The Governor expressed optimism that all illegally occupied farmlands would be reclaimed for cultivation this year. He also announced the establishment of a major security base in Gashish, Barkin Ladi, to enhance security in Riyom, Bokkos, and Barkin Ladi Local Government Areas.
Chairman of the occasion and Secretary to the State Government, Arc. Samuel Jatau, commended the Ron Nation for reviving the cultural festival that had been absent for decades. He highlighted the festival’s potential to foster unity despite the diversity of cultures.
During his visit to the Bokkos Traditional Council, Governor Mutfwang extended his condolences over the unprovoked attacks on defenseless mourners in Ruwi Community. He urged traditional leaders to remain united and resolute in selecting the next Ron-Kulere, emphasizing that they must not be intimidated by ongoing attacks or attempts to displace them from their ancestral lands.
In response, the Saf Kulere, Lawrence Aizat, who serves as the Acting President of the Bokkos Local Government Traditional Council, expressed gratitude for the Governor’s steadfast support. He assured him of the people’s commitment to fostering peace and stability in the area. He further stressed that, as any agrarian community, Bokkos urgently requires a strong security presence to ensure a successful farming season.
Meanwhile, Governor Mutfwang visited the people of Ruwi, where he condemned the attack on innocent civilians as an act of cowardice. He encouraged the local community to remain steadfast in defending their God-given land, urged the youth to prioritize surveillance, and advised against isolated farming to prevent further attacks by assailants.
Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
March 30, 2025.
