The Executive Governor of Plateau State Barrister Caleb Mannaseh Mutfwang has eulogized the traditional institution and has stressed the role of the institution in the unity of the State. The Governor made this known at coronation ceremony and presentation of Staff-of-Office to the First Class Chief of the Pankshin/Kanke Traditional Council, the Ngolong Ngas, His Royal Highness Nde Jika Golit in Pankshin on Friday 5th January 2023.
While making his remark, the Governor said that “This occasion is unique and very dear to my administration, as we all know the traditional institution is vital to the preservation of our cultural heritage and the promotion of our co-existence as a people who share a common identity. We value the continuous maintenance of the norms, traditions, and practices that serve the greater interest of the people.”.
The governor used the opportunity to warn against court actions which have stalled the selection and installation of traditional Rulers across the the state.
“Let me warn mischief makers against needless court actions aimed at delaying or frustrating the selection and or installation of traditional rulers. We must learn to accept the will of God. I want to place on record the tireless efforts of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftancy Affairs in carrying out extensive consultation with a wide range of stakeholders before the selection process of the Ngolong Ngas commenced and concluded.” the Governor said.
The Governor added that In furtherance of the commitment of his administration to run a transparent and inclusive government, he urged all communities, villages, and chiefdoms to embrace dialogue as the only means of resolving any differences on matters that relate to the traditional stools, in order to foster peace and harmonious co-existence.
“As a government, we are determined to resolve all lingering litigations that have brought setbacks to some communities. This will enable us fill the vacant stools that are left in some parts of the state. Our desire is to move along with all communities in providing tangible development that will improve the living conditions of our people, especially in the rural areas”. the Governor stressed.
“I must say that today’s coronation of the new Ngolong Ngas is the first traditional function that I have performed since you entrusted me with your mandate to lead you. I urge other communities who are delaying the process of selecting their traditional rulers to resolve their differences and come in one accord to forge a common interest’. he stressed.
In concluding his speech, Governor Mutfwang charged all Plateau people not to allow our ethnic, political, and religious differences translate into divisions, stressing that “Like I have often remarked; our strength is in our unity and ‘’ there is no force no matter how formidable a united people cannot overcome’’.
Nigeria Star News 