JOS, PLATEAU STATE — Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has formally tendered an apology to the Igbo community on behalf of the people of Plateau State over the role the state played during the 1967–1970 Nigerian Civil War.
Speaking during an interactive session with Igbo leaders drawn from all 17 local government areas of the state at the Government House in Jos, Governor Mutfwang stated that the people of Plateau were “deceived” into participating in the conflict and called for reconciliation, unity, and shared prosperity.
The apology comes as part of ongoing efforts by the administration to deepen inter-ethnic harmony, promote peaceful coexistence, and strengthen economic partnerships across the state.
“Please Forgive Us”: Highlights from Governor Mutfwang’s Address
Addressing stakeholders, Governor Mutfwang expressed regret over historical events while urging both communities to put the painful chapter behind them:
- Acknowledgment of Deception & Regret: “I apologize 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,” Governor Mutfwang stated.
- Integral Role of Igbo Community: The governor praised Ndigbo for their socio-economic contributions, describing them as essential partners in Plateau State’s progress and noting that Plateau remains one of the most accommodating environments for Igbo residents since the end of the civil war.
- Call for Mentorship & Economic Partnership: Mutfwang appealed to Igbo entrepreneurs in Plateau to continue investing in the state while training and employing young Plateau indigenes through business mentorship programs.
In response to the governor’s peace-building initiatives and inclusive governance style, leaders of the Igbo community in Plateau State announced their unanimous endorsement of Governor Mutfwang for a second term ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, the President-General of the Igbo Community Association (ICA) in Plateau State, Chief Chidi Onah, lauded the administration’s resolution of long-standing property disputes, compensation for affected members, and support for the community.
“We hereby endorse Governor Caleb Mutfwang as the consensus candidate of the Igbo community for the 2027 governorship election. He has promoted peaceful coexistence, stood by us during difficult moments, and created a business-friendly environment,” Chief Chidi Onah declared.
