Plateau: C’ttee Submits Report on Review of Chiefdoms and Districts

By Ralph Madugu

The Special Committee on Complaints Arising from the Creation and upgrading of Chiefdoms, Districts and Villa Areas in Plateau from 2015 to date led by retired Justice Christine Dabup has submitted its report to the Plateau State Government.

Submitting the report to Gov. Caleb Mutfwang at the Government House, Little Rayfield in Jos, Justice Christine Dabup, described the assignment as “a critical engagement with the legitimate grievances of the people,” stating that the memoranda submitted by various communities and stakeholders reflected deep-seated demands for justice, fairness, and recognition, particularly from historically marginalized and suppressed communities across Plateau State.

She said, ““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 Caleb Mutfwang acknowledged the complexity and emotional weight of the assignment, describing it as vital to peacebuilding and reconciliation across the state.

Gov. Mutfwang added that the committee’s assignment was “not just an administrative task,” adding that “It was a deeply emotional and sensitive undertaking that required wisdom, empathy, and a commitment to justice,” and commended the committee for their diligence and integrity in carrying out this crucial task.

The governor 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. 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.”

Gov. Mutfwang assured that the 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 used the forum to congratulate Justice Christine Dapup on her recent appointment into the Police Service Commission, expressing confidence in her continued contributions to national development. It would be recalled that the Plateau State Government has set up a special committee to look into complaints arising from the creation and upgrading of Chiefdoms, Districts and Village Areas in the state from 2015 to date.

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