Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has apologised to the Igbo community for the role the state played during the Nigerian Civil War, saying the people of Plateau “were deceived” into participating in the conflict.

Speaking during an interactive session with Igbo leaders from the 17 local government areas of the state at the Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, over the weekend, Mutfwang urged both sides to put the past behind them and strengthen the bonds of unity.

The governor commended the Igbo community for its contributions to the socio-economic development of Plateau State, describing them as an integral part of the state’s progress.

According to him, Plateau has remained one of the most accommodating states for the Igbo people since the end of the civil war, noting that compensation was paid for some losses suffered during the conflict.

“I apologise to the Igbos so that we can put the past behind us and continue to foster unity. We have become one family because our people were deceived into going to war, and we regret it. We must close that chapter and move forward,” Mutfwang said.

He added: “We must unite. We want the Igbos to regard us as their brothers and sisters, and together we must create an enabling environment where everyone can prosper.”

The governor also appealed to Igbo businessmen in Plateau to support indigenous entrepreneurs through mentorship and investment.

“Nigeria is a great country, and no ethnic group has demonstrated the entrepreneurial spirit more than the Igbo. I encourage you to replicate that same spirit in Plateau. I also appeal to Igbo business owners to employ and train young Plateau indigenes,” he said.

During the meeting, leaders of the Igbo community endorsed Mutfwang for a second term ahead of the 2027 governorship election, citing what they described as his inclusive leadership, prudent management of resources and commitment to peaceful coexistence.

The endorsement was announced by the President-General of the Igbo Community in Plateau State, Chief Chidi Onah.

“We hereby 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 said.

“He has promoted peaceful coexistence and created a business-friendly environment. He stood by us during the demise of our traditional ruler and has consistently engaged stakeholders to promote unity among the diverse ethnic groups in Plateau State.”

He further commended the governor’s developmental strides, saying Plateau now enjoys a more conducive environment for business and investment.

“Igbo people have lived in Plateau since before Nigeria’s independence. We appreciate the governor for compensating some of our members over disputed properties and urge Nigerians across ethnic and religious divides to support his administration,” he added.

Also speaking, former President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA), Chief Mike Ifeanyi Okunonke, described the Igbo as peace-loving people committed to the economic development of Plateau State.

He said the community would support Mutfwang’s re-election bid based on his performance rather than political affiliation.

“We will vote for personalities, not political parties. Governor Mutfwang has demonstrated capacity by creating opportunities and reducing unemployment. We will mobilise our members across the 17 local government areas to support him,” he said.

Okunonke added that the endorsement reflected the cordial relationship the governor has built with the Igbo community through genuine partnership and inclusiveness.

Special Adviser to the Governor on Igbo Affairs, Barr. Jonah Okechukwu Ezekweme, commended Mutfwang for creating an enabling environment for the Igbo community to thrive in Plateau State.

He urged members of the community to support the governor’s second-term bid and continue partnering with the government to create employment and business opportunities for young people.

Earlier, Hon. High Chief Felix O. Akpunku welcomed members of the Igbo community on behalf of the governor and praised Mutfwang’s developmental projects across the state, describing his administration as one committed to inclusive governance and sustainable development.

The meeting also featured the formal presentation 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, including Chief Dr. Nelson Mkparu and Hon. Maureen Odilimuo, lauded the governor for his inclusive leadership and support for the Igbo community, pledging continued cooperation with his administration.

The meeting ended with renewed commitments by both the Plateau State Government and the Igbo community to strengthen peaceful coexistence, deepen collaboration and promote sustainable development across the state. (Guardian)

Update news