Governor of Plateau State, Caleb Mutfwang, has apologised to the Igbo for the role the state played during the Nigerian Civil War, stating Plateau people “were deceived” to join the battle.
Mutfwang, during an interactive session with Igbo leaders from the 17 local government areas of the state at the Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, at the weekend, urged both sides to bury the hatchet and deepen the bonds of unity, writes The Guardian.
The governor extolled the Igbo community for their contributions to the socio-economic development of Plateau State, saying that they are part of the growth of the state.
He said Plateau has been one of the friendliest states to the Igbo people since the end of the civil war, noting that some compensation was provided for some of the losses incurred during the war.
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“I am apologising to Igbos so that we can move on from the past and continue to promote unity. Our people were tricked into going to war and we regret it, but we have become one family. “We have to close that chapter and move on,” Mutfwang remarked.
“We have to unite,” he added. “We want Igbos to see us as their brothers and sisters and together, we must make an enabling environment for all to prosper.”
The governor also urged Igbo businesspeople in Plateau to encourage the local entrepreneurs through mentorship and investment. Administration
Nigeria is a great country and no ethnic group has proven the business spirit than the Igbos. I would encourage you to do the same in Plateau. “I also urge Igbo business owners to employ and train young Plateau indigenes,” he added.
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The Igbo leaders at the meeting backed Mutfwang for a second term ahead of the 2027 governorship election on the grounds of what they characterised as his all-inclusive leadership, wise use of resources and dedication to peaceful cohabitation.
Chief Chidi Onah, President-General of Igbo Community in Plateau State, declared the endorsement.
“We endorse Governor Caleb Mutfwang as the consensus candidate of the Igbo community for the 2027 governorship election. “This endorsement is based on his competence, integrity, proven leadership and commitment to equity,” Onah stated. Public Administration
“He has preached peaceful coexistence and created an enabling environment for doing business. He was with us when our traditional ruler died and has always carried stakeholders along to ensure unity among the many ethnic groups in Plateau State.”
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He congratulated the governor for his developmental efforts, noting that Plateau is now a better place for business and investment.
“The Igbo people have been living in Plateau before the independence of Nigeria. He said: “We commend the governor for paying some of our members over disputed properties and appeal to Nigerians across ethnic and religious persuasions to support his administration.
Also addressing, the former President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA), Chief Mike Ifeanyi Okunonke, hailed the Igbo as peace-loving people who are devoted to the economic growth of Plateau State.
He claimed the community would back Mutfwang’s re-election bid on the basis of his performance and not political party. Political Science
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We will vote for persons and not for political parties. Governor Mutfwang has shown capacity to provide opportunities and reduce unemployment. “We will deploy our members in all the 17 local government districts to support him, “he stated.
According to Okunonke, the support was a reflection of the warm relationship the governor has developed with the Igbo community via real partnership and inclusiveness.
Barr. Jonah Okechukwu Ezekweme, Special Adviser to the Governor on Igbo Affairs, complimented Mutfwang for providing a conducive environment for the Igbo people to flourish in Plateau State.
He called on members of the community to support the governor’s second term bid and continue to cooperate with the administration to generate job and entrepreneurial possibilities for the young people. State
Earlier, the governor was represented by Hon. High Chief Felix O. Akpunku, who welcomed members of the Igbo community and lauded Mutfwang’s developmental projects across the state, describing his administration as one devoted to inclusive governance and sustainable development.
The gathering also saw the ceremonial introduction of the new President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA), Chief Chidi Onah by the immediate past President-General, Chief Mike Ifeanyi Okunonke.
Other speakers such as Chief Dr Nelson Mkparu and Hon. Maureen Odilimuo poured encomium on the governor for his inclusive leadership and support for the Igbo community, and vowed to continue to work with his government.
The conference ended with repeated vows by the Plateau State administration and the Igbo community to foster peaceful co-existence, enhance collaboration and promote sustainable development across the state.
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