THE SECURITY ILLUSION: WHY GOVERNOR MUTFWANG CANNOT BE TRUSTED WITH PLATEAU SAFETY

PHASE 1, SERIAL 1

(By Dr. Samaila Achigak A. Rukuba)

Since assuming office as Governor of Plateau State on May 29, 2023, Barrister Caleb Mutfwang has continued to make assurances about restoring peace and security. Yet, more than three years into his administration, many communities across the state remain trapped in cycles of violence, displacement, fear and uncertainty.

The central question confronting Plateau citizens today is simple: where is the security transformation that was promised?

Before becoming governor, Mutfwang was fully aware of the depth and complexity of the security crisis confronting Plateau State. During the electioneering period, he made strong promises to confront insecurity and restore lasting peace.

However, critics argue that the reality since he assumed office has fallen far short of those expectations.

Rather than witnessing a decisive end to attacks and displacement, several communities have continued to experience violence and humanitarian crises. For victims who have lost loved ones, homes and livelihoods, repeated government assurances have increasingly raised a painful question: when will promises finally translate into protection and justice?

BILLIONS FOR VICTIMS, BUT WHERE IS THE ACCOUNTABILITY?

One of the most troubling issues surrounding the humanitarian consequences of insecurity is the management and distribution of funds reportedly donated for victims of attacks.

On September 13, 2023, the First Lady reportedly donated ₦500 million to support victims displaced by the April and May 2023 attacks.

Critics and concerned stakeholders have continued to demand a transparent public account of how the funds were distributed, who benefited and the extent to which the intervention improved the living conditions of genuine victims.

Similarly, on July 3, 2025, Senator Oluremi Tinubu donated another ₦1 billion for victims of attacks in Plateau State.

Again, questions remain over the beneficiaries, the disbursement process and the specific humanitarian interventions funded by the donation.

Following the Angwan Rukuba tragedy, the President reportedly approved ₦2 billion for victims on April 29, 2026. There have also been questions surrounding other donations, including the ₦100 million reportedly presented by Apostle Salman during a visit to Angwan Rukuba and handed to the state government.

For victims still struggling with displacement and loss, the issue is not merely about announcements of donations.

The issue is accountability.

Where did the money go?

Who received it?

How many displaced families were resettled?

How many homes were rebuilt?

How many victims received medical, psychological or livelihood support?

Until clear and verifiable answers are provided, concerns about transparency and the management of humanitarian assistance will continue to grow.

THE TOWN-HALL THAT NEVER HAPPENED

Another major issue raised by critics of the administration concerns the proposed presidential town-hall engagement scheduled for Jos on Monday, April 21, 2025.

The Vice President, Kashim Shettima, alongside the then Minister of Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Reduction, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, were expected to participate in an engagement aimed at receiving firsthand accounts and exploring lasting solutions to Plateau's persistent security challenges.

According to the critics, the planned engagement did not eventually hold as expected.

Instead, a Peace Walk involving Christian leaders and groups was organized to the Government House, where a letter was presented to Governor Mutfwang for onward transmission to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

For many observers, the cancellation or disruption of a direct town-hall engagement with the Presidency represented a missed opportunity.

A town-hall meeting could have allowed victims, community leaders, security stakeholders and ordinary citizens to speak directly about their experiences and present their concerns without political filters.

The question therefore remains: why was such an opportunity lost?

PROMISES OF SECURITY, BUT WHAT HAS CHANGED?

In July 2023, during a visit to the then Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Taoreed Lagbaja, Governor Mutfwang pledged to provide logistical support to security agencies and pursue both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies to address the crisis.

The governor stated that his administration would provide the necessary logistics to enable security agencies to perform effectively while also strengthening dialogue among communities and leaders.

The commitment sounded reassuring.

But years later, critics insist that Plateau people deserve to assess the administration based not on promises, but on results.

Has insecurity been significantly reduced?

Are rural communities safer?

Have displaced persons returned home?

Have perpetrators of attacks been brought to justice?

Has the government succeeded in building genuine reconciliation among divided communities?

These are the questions that assurances alone cannot answer.

A FAILURE OF UNITY?

Security cannot be separated from unity.

A divided society is more vulnerable to conflict, suspicion and manipulation. This was why the then Chief of Army Staff reportedly emphasized the need for unity among the people of Plateau State.

Yet critics argue that Governor Mutfwang's political approach has failed to build the broad coalition required to confront the state's challenges.

Several prominent political figures who were associated with his political journey have since parted ways with him and moved into other political platforms or camps. Among those mentioned by critics are his former 2023 Campaign Director-General, Letep Dabang; Senator I.D. Gyang; and General John Sura, among others.

Their departures, critics contend, raise serious questions about the governor's ability to maintain political unity even among those who once stood firmly behind him.

THE MANGU QUESTION

At the grassroots level, critics also point to political tensions involving the Pyem and Mwaghavul communities in Mangu Local Government Area.

They allege that the distribution of political opportunities and appointments has generated concerns about fairness, inclusion and representation.

Positions and political tickets—including the local government chairmanship, liaison offices, House of Assembly contests, federal constituency representation and commissioner appointments—have become subjects of intense debate.

Critics argue that a government that seeks to build peace must ensure that every ethnic and political constituency feels represented and included.

The marginalization—real or perceived—of any community can deepen resentment and undermine the very unity required for lasting peace.

DIVISIONS BEYOND THE PDP

The controversy, according to critics, did not end with the governor's former political platform.

Even within the APC political environment, there are concerns about growing tensions among different blocs, including groups associated with The Time Is Now movement and the Legacy Group.

For a governor confronting one of the country's most complicated security crises, the challenge is enormous.

Plateau does not need more political divisions.

It needs leadership capable of building bridges across ethnic, religious, political and geographical lines.

THE VERDICT OF THE PEOPLE

Security is the first responsibility of government.

When citizens cannot sleep peacefully, when communities live in fear, when families remain displaced and when victims continue to ask questions about relief funds, government must provide more than speeches and assurances.

It must provide results.

For Governor Caleb Mutfwang, the political debate heading toward 2027 will increasingly revolve around one fundamental issue:

Can Plateau people point to measurable evidence that their lives are safer today than they were when he assumed office?

The people of Plateau deserve answers.

They deserve accountability.

And above all, they deserve security that is real—not merely promised.

To be continued…

Signed:

Dr. Samaila Achigak A. Rukuba

SPS, Plateau PDP

2027: KEFIANO TELLS SUPPORTERS TO SHUN INSULTS, FOCUS ON ISSUES

(By WALBE OGAK)

The 2027 governorship candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Plateau State, Chief Kefas Wungak Ropshik, popularly known as Kefiano, has called on his supporters to reject character assassination, abusive language and personal attacks as political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections gather momentum.

Instead, the PDP governorship hopeful urged his supporters to concentrate on issues that directly affect the lives of the people and engage political opponents on the basis of ideas, policies, competence and capacity to deliver meaningful development.

Kefiano gave the charge on Saturday, September 5, 2026, during an interaction with members of his media team at his office near the State Secretariat Junction in Jos.

The businessman, philanthropist and Chief Executive Officer of Kefiano Motors said he was aware that political opponents might attempt to provoke him and his supporters into exchanging insults and engaging in campaigns centred on personalities rather than governance.

However, he maintained that his political movement would remain focused on presenting solutions to the challenges confronting Plateau State.

According to him, the 2027 governorship contest should be about competing visions and programmes, rather than bitterness, abuse and attempts to destroy the personal reputation of political opponents.

Kefiano said his decision to seek the governorship of Plateau State was driven by his belief that the state requires a new approach to governance—one that places economic transformation, job creation and improved livelihoods at the centre of public policy.

He argued that while peace and political stability remain essential to development, they should not be the only standards by which the success of any administration is measured.

According to him, the true test of governance lies in the ability of government to formulate and implement deliberate policies capable of transforming the economic and social conditions of the people.

Speaking from his experience in the private sector, Kefiano said governance must be driven by seriousness, discipline, accountability and measurable results.

He stressed that public resources must translate into tangible value for citizens, insisting that government should be able to demonstrate the impact of every major investment and expenditure on the lives of the people.

The PDP candidate also expressed concern over Plateau State's heavy dependence on salaried employment, warning that government alone could not continue to provide jobs for the increasing number of young people entering the labour market.

He advocated deliberate policies that would promote entrepreneurship, attract investment and encourage technology-driven businesses and other productive sectors capable of generating sustainable employment opportunities.

Kefiano further noted that technological advancement was rapidly changing the global workplace and the nature of employment, warning that Plateau State could not afford to remain dependent on traditional structures of employment while conventional job opportunities continued to shrink.

He said his proposed agenda for Plateau State was shaped by his experience as a businessman and his understanding of the economic realities facing the state.

According to him, the 2027 election presents an opportunity for the people of Plateau State to carefully examine competing ideas and determine which candidate possesses the vision, policies and capacity to deliver measurable improvements in their lives.

On the conduct of the campaign, Kefiano reiterated that neither he nor his supporters would be distracted by personal attacks or campaigns of calumny.

He urged political supporters and members of the public to subject information circulated against political actors to proper verification rather than accepting allegations and unverified materials as weapons for abusive political campaigns.

The governorship hopeful also called on members of the media and other stakeholders to resist attempts to reduce the 2027 election to a contest of personalities.

He said the major questions before the electorate should centre on leadership qualities, track records, policies, experience and the capacity of those seeking public office to provide meaningful leadership and development.

Kefiano disclosed that plans were underway to further strengthen his campaign and media structures in the coming weeks, particularly through improved coordination with social media teams and other communication platforms.

The move, he said, was aimed at ensuring that his vision and proposed programmes for Plateau State are effectively communicated to the electorate.

He appealed to his supporters to remain united, disciplined and focused, stressing that the sacrifices being made by members of the movement must be directed towards building a better and more prosperous Plateau State.

As the political atmosphere ahead of 2027 begins to intensify, Kefiano maintained that his campaign would be anchored on issues and ideas rather than insults and division.

He therefore called on the electorate to look beyond political sentiments and carefully assess the qualities, experience, programmes and capacity of those seeking to govern Plateau State.

For Kefiano, the battle for Plateau Government House in 2027, he insists, must ultimately be a contest of ideas, competence and competing visions for the future of the people.

2027: WAPLANG HAILS MUTFWANG’S INFRASTRUCTURE DRIVE AS NEW JOS ROAD PROJECTS TAKE OFF

Says Governor Is Rebuilding Plateau Through Visible Projects

As political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Coordinator of the Plateau Central Zone Like Minds for Caleb Mutfwang 2027, Mr. Peter Waplang, has applauded Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, for sustaining what he described as an unprecedented drive to rebuild and modernise critical infrastructure across the state.

Waplang particularly commended the Governor and the Plateau State Ministry of Housing and Urban Development following the signing of contracts for major road construction and rehabilitation projects across strategic communities within the Jos metropolis.

He said the latest development further demonstrates that the Mutfwang administration is approaching governance with a clear vision, translating promises into visible projects and laying the foundation for a more connected, economically vibrant and prosperous Plateau State.

The Plateau State Government recently signed three major road construction agreements under the Ministry of Housing and Urban Development as part of the administration’s renewed push to revitalise infrastructure and improve the living conditions of residents.

Speaking at the contract-signing ceremony, the Commissioner for Housing and Urban Development, Sylvanus Dongtoe, said the projects were part of the government's broader agenda to strengthen critical infrastructure, improve social amenities and stimulate development across communities.

Dongtoe charged the contractors handling the projects to strictly adhere to contractual specifications, stressing that the Mutfwang administration would not compromise on quality, durability and timely completion.

The projects include the two-kilometre construction and upgrading of roads within Whitt Community and Nyango One in Jos South Local Government Area.

Other strategic projects include the rehabilitation of the Utonkon, Nunku and Keana linked roads, with an extension towards Akila Machunga, alongside the construction of a major nine-span flyover bridge.

Also covered are the Danchom Junction–Gwarandok Road network and the Danchom Junction–MOPOL Barracks–Old Airport Road, projects expected to significantly improve connectivity and ease movement within Jos South.

Further construction and rehabilitation works will also be undertaken at the Doctors’ Quarters in Haske, Gwafan along the New JUTH Road to Kwanga ‘A’ and ‘B’, as well as the Zion High School Junction linking Mary Sole Hospital and Omega School, cutting across parts of Jos North and Jos South Local Government Areas.

The contracts were awarded to Jodalsam Global Limited, P.W. Nigeria Limited and Jecon Construction Nigeria Limited.

Reacting to the development, Waplang said the projects provide further evidence that Governor Mutfwang’s administration is focused on delivering tangible dividends of democracy rather than engaging in empty political rhetoric.

According to him, the growing number of road projects across Plateau State has become one of the defining features of the Mutfwang administration, with communities witnessing renewed attention to infrastructure after years of neglect.

He said improved road networks would not only ease transportation but also open up communities, support businesses, encourage investment and create new economic opportunities for residents.

“What we are witnessing across Plateau State is the practical rebuilding of our infrastructure. Governor Caleb Mutfwang has demonstrated that leadership is about action, and these projects are clear evidence of his commitment to improving the lives of the people,” Waplang said.

The Plateau Central Zone Coordinator maintained that the Mutfwang administration's growing record in infrastructure, alongside interventions in other critical sectors, would form a strong basis for the Governor’s political support as the state moves towards the 2027 elections.

He called on Plateau residents to continue supporting the administration, arguing that the ongoing transformation requires continuity and collective commitment.

Waplang expressed confidence that the infrastructure projects being executed across the state would further strengthen public confidence in Governor Mutfwang’s leadership.

He maintained that the political message ahead of 2027 would increasingly be shaped by performance and visible development.

“The people can see the projects. Communities can see the roads, and residents can see a government working to restore Plateau State. The Mutfwang administration is building a record that speaks for itself,” he added.

With new road contracts being signed and construction activities expanding across strategic locations, supporters of the Governor insist that the 2027 campaign conversation will be driven not merely by promises, but by the visible evidence of a Plateau State undergoing reconstruction and renewal under Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang.

2027: ACHIGAK FIRES BACK AT PASALI, WARNS AGAINST POLITICS OF DISTRACTION

Says Plateau Governorship Campaign Must Be About Ideas, Capacity and Vision, Not Smear Campaigns

(By WALBE OGAK)

As political activities ahead of the 2027 general elections continue to gather momentum across Plateau State, a chieftain of the Peoples Democratic Party, PDP, Dr. Samaila Achigak A. Rukuba, has taken a swipe at Pasali and those allegedly behind what he described as a sustained campaign of distraction and unsubstantiated attacks against the governorship ambition of Chief Kefas Wungak Ropshik, popularly known as Achigak, in a strongly worded political rebuttal, said the time had come for political actors and their supporters to move away from personal attacks and propaganda and focus on the fundamental issues confronting Plateau State.

According to him, the people of the state deserve a campaign built around ideas, credible development programmes and practical solutions to insecurity, unemployment and economic hardship.

He said that although he had initially considered the repeated outbursts against Kefiano unworthy of a response, it had become necessary to set the records straight and caution against attempts to substitute political engagement with what he described as “the politics of distraction.”

Dr. Achigak maintained that anyone who genuinely believes that a political candidate has violated electoral laws or failed to meet constitutional requirements should approach the appropriate institutions and seek legal redress.

He argued that Nigeria's democracy provides established legal and institutional channels for addressing disputes relating to qualifications, electoral processes and alleged violations.

“If anyone has credible evidence against any candidate, the appropriate thing is to present such evidence before the relevant authorities and, where necessary, pursue the matter through the courts,” he said.

According to him, public grandstanding, social media campaigns and repeated insinuations cannot replace evidence and due process.

“In a constitutional democracy, legitimacy is not determined by sponsored noise, propaganda or personal attacks. It is determined by law, due process, evidence and ultimately the will of the people,” Rukuba stressed.

He noted that the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, operates within a constitutional framework and that electoral disputes have recognised legal channels through which they can be pursued.

The PDP stalwart said the emerging political contest ahead of 2027 must not be reduced to endless controversies and personal attacks.

According to him, the central issue before the people of Plateau State is who possesses the capacity, vision and credibility to confront the state's numerous challenges.

He said the campaign should focus on practical solutions to insecurity, economic development, youth unemployment, infrastructure and the restoration of peace across troubled communities.

“The people of Plateau State deserve serious leadership conversations. They want to know who has the ideas and the capacity to move the state forward,” he said.

Dr. Achigak argued that candidates seeking public office must be prepared to subject their ideas and programmes to public scrutiny rather than relying on attacks against political opponents.

“Elections are not won through bitterness. They are not won through smear campaigns. They are won through ideas, credibility, capacity and the confidence of the people,” he declared.

Dr. Achigak challenged political actors and those critical of Kefiano's governorship aspiration to present alternative solutions to the challenges facing Plateau State.

He said political engagement should be centred on competing development agendas rather than attempts to manufacture controversy.

According to him, those seeking relevance in the political space should present clear programmes for the people.

He listed some of the issues that should dominate the 2027 campaign as:

• Security and the protection of lives and property;

• Youth empowerment and employment;

• Economic growth and investment;

• Infrastructure development;

• Education and healthcare;

• Rural development; and

• Sustainable peace and reconciliation.

“Let those who seek to participate in the political process come forward with their programmes. Let them tell Plateau people what they intend to do differently. Let there be debates based on facts, policies and ideas,” he said.

The PDP chieftain also cautioned against what he described as the growing tendency of reducing political competition to personal hostility and character assassination.

He insisted that leadership should be judged primarily on the basis of competence, integrity, capacity and the ability to deliver meaningful development.

According to him, politicians who abandon substantive arguments in favour of insults and personal attacks risk exposing the weakness of their own political positions.

“The future of Plateau State is too important to be sacrificed on the altar of personal vendettas,” he said.

He further called on political leaders to demonstrate greater responsibility in managing their supporters and controlling the tone of political communication.

According to him, leaders must not encourage individuals who thrive on provocation, misinformation and division.

As political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections, Rukuba warned against creating an atmosphere of hostility capable of threatening the peace and stability of Plateau State.

He said political leaders, candidates and their supporters must recognise the consequences of reckless political rhetoric.

According to him, the state requires a peaceful and issues-based political environment where candidates can present their visions to the electorate without intimidation, propaganda or unnecessary hostility.

He called on Governor Caleb Mutfwang and other major political stakeholders to promote political tolerance and ensure that democratic competition does not degenerate into bitterness.

“Those who plant the seeds of hostility and division must understand that political rhetoric has consequences. Plateau State needs peace and responsible leadership,” he said.

Dr. Achigak expressed confidence that Plateau voters would not be swayed by campaigns built solely around unsubstantiated allegations and personal attacks.

He said the electorate had become increasingly conscious of the issues affecting their daily lives and would judge political leaders based on their records, credibility and capacity to deliver.

“The people are watching. They are listening. And when the time comes, they will make their decisions based on who offers the most credible vision for peace, security, development and prosperity,” he stated.

He maintained that attempts to undermine credible candidates through smear campaigns would ultimately fail because Plateau people are capable of distinguishing between genuine political engagement and deliberate distraction.

As the race towards 2027 gathers momentum, Rukuba urged political actors across party lines to embrace a campaign defined by ideas and respect for democratic institutions.

“Plateau State deserves a campaign defined by ideas, not insults; by vision, not vendettas; by evidence, not propaganda; and by constructive engagement, not political distraction,” he declared.

He added that the ultimate responsibility of every political leader should be to protect the peace of Plateau State while offering the people a credible pathway towards a more secure and prosperous future.

KEFIANO DONATES ₦1 MILLION, PLEDGES TO EMPOWER 500 RUKUBA YOUTHS

(By WALBE OGAK)

The Plateau State Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governorship Candidate, Chief Kefas Wungak Ropshik, popularly known as Kefiano, has reaffirmed his commitment to youth development, economic empowerment and cultural preservation with a ₦1 million donation to the Bache Youth Movement (BYM) and a pledge to sponsor skills acquisition training for 500 young people.

The commitment was made at the Bache Youth Movement Dinner and Award Night held at Billande Event Centre, Azinzi, Kissaloi, Rukuba.

According to Dr. SAA Rukuba

PDP State Publicity Secretary,

The event brought together members of the vibrant youth wing of the Bache (Rukuba) Development Association, traditional leaders, political stakeholders and other distinguished personalities to celebrate Rukuba cultural identity, youth leadership and community development.

Chief Ropshik's intervention emerged as one of the major highlights of the occasion, as he demonstrated what supporters described as a practical commitment to investing in the capacity and future of young people.

Although the gathering was not organised as a fundraising event, the PDP governorship candidate made a personal donation of ₦1 million to the youth movement and immediately redeemed the pledge.

More significantly, Kefiano expressed his readiness to sponsor 500 Rukuba youths for meaningful skills and vocational training, with the objective of equipping them with practical skills that can promote entrepreneurship, productivity and financial independence.

He maintained that empowering young people must go beyond rhetoric, stressing the need to deliberately create opportunities that will enable youths to become economically productive and self-reliant.

The PDP governorship candidate also assured the Bache Youth Movement of his willingness to work with the organisation in promoting a new culture of enterprise and skills acquisition among young people.

According to him, there is a growing need to move away from an overdependence on the traditional civil service mentality and encourage youths to embrace entrepreneurship, innovation, productivity and economic independence.

AWARDS FOR DISTINGUISHED PERSONALITIES

The Dinner and Award Night also featured the recognition of distinguished sons and daughters of the Rukuba community whose contributions have supported youth development, community growth and the advancement of the Bache nation.

Among those recognised were Chris Adukuchili Hassan; Alhaji Abdullahi Incham, popularly known as Ogah Perfect; Hon. Achangat Ikpiri; Hon. Dr. Paul Adara Adiwu (Athree); Hon. Dr. Alhaji S. A. A. Rukuba; Mrs. Maria Asanga; Hon. Daniel Asama Agoh; General Bala Ashom Isandu; Major Asiko Dan Ayika; Mr. Jeremiah Asanato; Mr. Ataki Akusuk; Mrs. Lami Ibrahim; Reverend Ayuba Ashisek; Mr. Victor Adiwu; Ati Joshua Asanga; Mrs. Esther Agagak; Senator Timothy Adudu; Hon. Eli Ankala Bako; Hon. Pharmacist Augustine Ajijelek; Engineer Jethro Akawu Abisi; Mr. Akusuk Ummah; Mr. Angai Ayuba Aghyu; Mr. Jerry Uchu; and Assistant Commissioner of Police Atikinkpan.

The recognition, organisers said, was designed to strengthen the relationship between the younger generation and community leaders while building a foundation for sustainable development and the continued advancement of the Bacé (Rukuba) nation.

Under the leadership of Dauda Aku, the Bache Youth Movement has continued to strengthen its structures and expand its role in preserving Rukuba cultural values while creating opportunities for young people.

POLITICAL AND COMMUNITY LEADERS GRACE EVENT

The event attracted prominent personalities from the Rukuba Kingdom and beyond, including members of the Traditional Council, political leaders and community stakeholders.

Among those present were the PDP candidate for Bassa/Jos North Federal Constituency, Hon. Musa Agah; Hon. Philip Dasun, popularly known as Phil D; Hon. Isiaku Chuntai; Hon. Nicholas Twansen; Hon. James Pam; Hon. Gwottson, popularly known as Banga by Nature; and the Northern Zone Senatorial Candidate, Hon. Caleb Shikir.

The gathering also served as a send-off ceremony for the outgoing Patron and Matron of the Movement, Dr. Samaila Achigak Ahalu, popularly known as Alhaji Rukuba, and Mama Maria Asanga, who served the organisation for several years.

Their tenure witnessed the strengthening and transformation of the youth association into a more organised platform committed to development, security and economic advancement.

The contributions of Hon. Lot Addass, described as one of the community's notable youth leaders, were also recognised as part of the efforts that helped reposition the Movement.

Also present was the President of the Bache (Rukuba) Community Development Association, Hon. Ati Ezekiel Angai, who joined other stakeholders in celebrating the achievements and progress of the youth organisation.

A MESSAGE OF YOUTH, CULTURE AND PROGRESS

For many participants, Chief Kefas Wungak Ropshik's intervention reinforced a broader message that the future of Plateau State must be built around deliberate investment in young people.

His pledge to support 500 youths through skills acquisition and vocational training places emphasis on preparing young people not only for employment but also for entrepreneurship, productivity and self-reliance.

The ₦1 million donation and empowerment pledge also reflect Kefiano's continuing engagement with grassroots communities and youth organisations across Plateau State as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Bache Youth Movement was commended for its leadership and continued commitment to cultural preservation, youth development and community advancement.

As the night drew to a close, the message remained unmistakable: the strength of any society lies in its ability to preserve its identity while deliberately preparing its young people for the future.

RUKUBA YOUTH. RUKUBA CULTURE. RUKUBA FUTURE.

MUTFWANG’S LABOUR REFORMS: BITRUS DAGWER HAILS GOVERNOR’S RECORD ON WORKERS’ WELFARE

A political stakeholder and labour leader, and the Organising Secretary Plateau Central for Mutfwang 2027, Bitrus Dagwer, has described Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, as an achiever in the area of government–labour relations, commending his administration for restoring stability and confidence within the state’s workforce.

Dagwer said the relationship between the Plateau State Government and organised labour has witnessed a remarkable improvement under the Mutfwang administration, bringing an end to the frequent strikes and industrial disputes that previously disrupted government activities and, particularly, the academic calendar of public schools.

According to him, the era when teachers and other public servants regularly embarked on strike actions, resulting in prolonged disruptions to the education of children, appears to be gradually becoming a thing of the past.

He noted that the restoration of industrial harmony has created a more stable working environment and allowed schools to operate without the persistent interruptions that characterised previous years.

“The workforce remains the cornerstone of progressive governance and a critical force behind the successful implementation of government policies,” Danger said.

He commended Governor Mutfwang for maintaining what he described as a consistent record of prompt payment of salaries since assuming office, arguing that the policy has restored confidence and significantly boosted the morale of civil servants across the state.

For many workers, regular and predictable payment of salaries represents more than an administrative responsibility. It provides economic security for families and enables civil servants to meet their daily obligations without the uncertainty that often fuels tension between government and organised labour.

Dagwer also pointed to efforts by the administration to address long-standing issues surrounding unpaid pensions and gratuities.

He said significant progress has been made in tackling inherited liabilities, while efforts are being intensified to clear outstanding arrears and ensure that retired workers receive their entitlements without unnecessary delay.

The issue of pensions and gratuities has remained one of the most sensitive areas of government–labour relations in many states, particularly for retirees who depend on such payments after years of service.

Supporters of the Mutfwang administration believe the renewed attention to these obligations demonstrates a commitment to restoring dignity to retired public servants and addressing liabilities inherited from previous administrations.

Beyond salaries and pensions, the Plateau State Government has also invested substantially in training and capacity development programmes aimed at improving the efficiency and productivity of civil servants.

Through digital reforms, targeted training and institutional strengthening initiatives, the administration is seeking to reposition the public service to meet the growing demands of modern governance.

Dagwer said a modern government cannot effectively deliver development without a skilled, motivated and technologically equipped workforce.

He argued that investments in human capacity development would ultimately strengthen service delivery and improve the ability of government institutions to respond to the needs of citizens.

Another major area identified by supporters of the administration is housing.

The Plateau State Government has acquired 90 hectares of land at Besiki for affordable housing development, while another 50 hectares has been earmarked for the proposed Federal/State Renewed Housing Estate.

The government has also paid ₦256 million in compensation to facilitate the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Miango Estate.

Efforts are equally underway to revive the Kugiya Estate through continued dialogue with landowners.

Plans are also being considered for another housing development opposite the 10 Commandments area, subject to the resolution of outstanding legal and design issues.

For supporters of the government, these initiatives demonstrate an attempt to address housing as a long-term development challenge rather than merely a short-term political promise.

Affordable housing, they argue, remains one of the major concerns facing civil servants and other low-income earners, particularly in urban centres where the cost of accommodation continues to rise.

Dagwer also commended the introduction of Metro Buses and the efforts to revive the railway transportation system, describing them as important interventions in addressing the transportation difficulties faced by civil servants, students and other residents.

Transportation costs have, over the years, placed a heavy financial burden on workers, particularly those who travel long distances daily between their homes and workplaces.

With the introduction of subsidised transportation services, commuters can now travel certain routes at significantly reduced costs.

For instance, a journey from Farin Gada to Zawan, which could previously cost as much as ₦2,000, can now be undertaken at about ₦200 through the government-supported transportation system.

The intervention, according to supporters, has also brought relief to commuters travelling through routes linking Zawan and Haipang, among other communities.

Dagwer said the reduction in transportation costs has significantly alleviated the suffering of civil servants, students and other low-income residents who previously spent a substantial portion of their income on daily transportation.

He maintained that government policies must ultimately be measured by their direct impact on the lives of ordinary citizens.

For the workers and supporters who have benefited from the improved industrial relations, regular salary payments, transportation interventions and housing initiatives, the emerging narrative is that Governor Mutfwang’s administration is placing workers’ welfare at the centre of governance.

As Plateau State continues to pursue its broader development agenda, the relationship between government and the workforce will remain critical.

And for Bitrus Dagwer, the restoration of industrial peace, coupled with interventions in salaries, pensions, housing, capacity development and transportation, represents evidence that the Mutfwang administration is making deliberate efforts to build a more stable and productive public service.

The challenge going forward, however, will be to sustain these reforms and ensure that the benefits extend to workers and residents across all parts of Plateau State.

HON. SWARGAK ALPHONSUS INSTALLED AS VILLAGE WARD HEAD

(By Walbe Ogak)

The Ngolong Lur, HRH Evangelist Nde Dominic Koplengha Wakdok, has formally inaugurated Hon. Nde Paradang Alphonsus Shwargak as Village Ward Head.

The historic installation took place on Saturday, September 5, 2026, at Kwal-Lur, the headquarters of Kanke Local Government Area of Plateau State.

Hon. Swargak Alphonsus, who currently serves as the Councillor representing Kabwir-Pada Ward in the Kanke Local Government Legislative Council, was formally installed in the presence of traditional rulers, political leaders, community development stakeholders, family members, friends and well-wishers.

Among the dignitaries present were the District Head of Kabwir, represented by the Ciroma; the District Head of Dawaki, Nde Gombwir Julius Dimbak; and the Village Head of Gar Pwel, Gen. HF Golit (Rtd).

Others included Nde Ngolong Wap Rong, Nde Zakka Tangshik Gombwer; Nde Ngolong Rong Defor, Nde Yalching Jan; Nde Ngolong Jaksham, Nde Justin Julius Jaksham; and Nde Ngolong Kudus, Nde Gotar Gideon.

The Chairman of Kanke Local Government Council was represented by Hon. John Kassem, while the Leader and members of the Kanke Legislative Arm were also in attendance.

Also present was Hon. Justice D.D. Longji, former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice in Plateau State; the Ciroman Kwal, Alh. Nde Bewene Haliru Audu; and the National Chairman of the Lur Community Development Association, Hon. Nde Gombwer Kopdimma Dungbam.

The Kwal Development Association was represented by its leadership led by Nde Elisha Turbam. Other personalities at the occasion included the Hardon Lur, Alh. Salihu Daura, and members of the KopmiNen Women Group, Kwal.

The ceremony also attracted all the 17 Ward Heads of Lur, the nine Sub-Village Heads, the Information Unit of Kanke Local Government Council, as well as friends, supporters and well-wishers of the Lur Community and the celebrant.

The installation was a significant moment for the traditional institution and the people of Lur, bringing together traditional rulers, political leaders and community stakeholders in a show of unity and solidarity.

Hon. Swargak Alphonsus is expected to bring his experience in public service and grassroots representation to bear in his new traditional responsibility, working with other community leaders towards the promotion of peace, unity and development in Lur and the wider Kanke Local Government Area.