The Executive Governor of Plateau State, His Excellency Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has received the report of the Special Committee on Complaints Arising from the Creation and Upgrading of Chiefdoms, Districts, and Village Areas in the state, from 2015 to date.
The Committee, Chaired by retired Justice Christine Dapup, presented the comprehensive report, based on 382 memoranda submitted by various communities and stakeholders, at the Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos.
In her remarks, Justice Christine Dapup the assignment as a critical engagement with the legitimate grievances of the people, following the publication of Gazette Nos. 1 and 2 of 2023. She noted that the memoranda reflected deep-seated demands for justice, fairness, and recognition, particularly from historically marginalized and suppressed communities across Plateau State.
“All senatorial districts were actively engaged,” she stated, “and the stories we encountered underscored the urgent need for institutional reforms and capacity building within the traditional governance system. Restructuring the traditional institution is key to strengthening nation-building efforts.”
Receiving the report, Governor Mutfwang acknowledged the complexity and emotional weight of the assignment, describing it as vital to peacebuilding and reconciliation across the state.
“This was not just an administrative task,” the Governor noted. “It was a deeply emotional and sensitive undertaking that required wisdom, empathy, and a commitment to justice. I commend Justice Christine Dapup and her team for their diligence and integrity in carrying out this crucial task.”
Governor Mutfwang emphasized that although his administration inherited many of these longstanding issues, it is fully committed to resolving them with fairness, equity, and justice to all.
“We are not here to apportion blame,” he said. “We are here to solve problems. Every citizen of Plateau State must feel a sense of belonging, regardless of ethnicity or religion. Our ‘Plateau-ness’ must always come first.”
Commenting on the recent violence in Bokkos Local Government Area, the Governor strongly condemned the attacks, labeling them as genocide.
“Let us be clear: what happened in Bokkos is genocide, plain and simple. Reducing such a heinous crime to a mere farmer-herder conflict is both false and offensive. It dishonours the memory of the victims and trivializes their suffering.”
He urged citizens to reject divisive narratives and embrace unity, emphasizing that violence anywhere in the state affects all Plateau people. “This is a time for collective healing and resolve. We must partner together and summon the courage to rebuild.”
Governor Mutfwang assured that the committee’s report would be reviewed objectively, with a White Paper to be produced after wide consultations with relevant stakeholders.
“We will not act unilaterally. We will listen, engage, and work with all parties to chart a course toward lasting peace and inclusive progress,” he said.
He also congratulated Justice Christine Dapup on her recent appointment to the Police Service Commission, expressing confidence in her continued contributions to national development.
In a related development, Governor Mutfwang inaugurated the Planning Committee for the 2025 Plateau Unity Christmas Carol and Praise Festival. He highlighted the growing importance of the annual event as both a spiritual celebration and a vehicle for promoting tourism.
“Tourism is a multifaceted driver of development, spiritual, cultural, health, and sports-related,” he said. “This year, we are expanding the festival’s scope to include a Plateau Marathon as part of efforts to reclaim our identity and redefine the Plateau narrative.”
The Governor reiterated the state government’s commitment to supporting victims of violence and thanked agencies, especially the National Emergency Management Agency (NEMA), for their swift response. He also appreciated President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his concern and for directing federal security agencies to act decisively.
“We thank Mr. President and the national security leadership for their prompt intervention. But beyond security measures, we must remain united, resilient, and committed to building a peaceful Plateau where life thrives.”
The 2025 Christmas Carol and Praise Festival Planning Committee is Chaired by Arc. Samuel Nanchang Jatau, Secretary to the Government of the State.
Gyang Bere
Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor of Plateau State
April 7, 2025.
