Governor Mutfwang, A Champion for Peace Urges Elites to Unite Plateau Through Narrative. He Reiterates Commitment to Ending Insecurity
The Executive Governor of Plateau State, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has urged Nigeria’s elite to take greater responsibility in shaping public discourse that promotes peaceful coexistence and national unity amid ongoing security challenges across the country.
Governor Mutfwang made this call on Wednesday. This was while delivering his opening remarks at a One Day Multi-Stakeholder Roundtable Dialogue themed “Community Policing as a Panacea for Insecurity in Nigeria: The Case of Plateau State.” It was held at the Sarau Event Centre, Hwolshe, behind NTA, Jos.
Addressing participants, the Governor stressed that productive and impactful discussions on security must be anchored in sincerity, patriotism, and constructive leadership. Especially from members of the elite who have the platform and influence to shape public opinion and drive national direction.
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“Communities that have coexisted peacefully can be torn apart when toxic narratives begin to take root. This poisoning of minds often starts quietly but spreads rapidly. It is the elites who must provide leadership by steering conversations toward healing and unity. When they instead promote hate and misinformation, they set a dangerous tone dividing people and fueling instability,” Governor Mutfwang stated.
He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to breaking down the barriers of religion and ethnicity that have historically hindered development and harmony in Plateau State.
“I came into office with a deep resolve to restore lasting peace on the Plateau. That is why I have intentionally worked to bridge the divides created by religious and ethnic differences. Though some continue to label me unfairly even as recently as yesterday I proudly assert that, since 1999, no administration has done more than ours in building peace and fostering unity in Plateau State,” he said.
Governor Mutfwang also reaffirmed his strong support for the creation of state police, describing it as a necessary structural reform for addressing Nigeria’s growing security complexities.
“I remain a firm and unapologetic advocate of state policing. Over the past two years, it has become clear to me that the Nigerian Police Force is far too centralized and cumbersome to be effectively managed from Abuja. Its size and complexity continue to present fresh challenges every month,” he noted.
The Governor commended the Gideon and Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation for organizing the roundtable. He acknowledged its continued efforts in promoting justice, peace, and principled leadership. He also expressed appreciation to faith leaders and stakeholders who consistently champion the values of fairness and peaceful coexistence in the State.
Speaking at the event, Rev. Gideon Para-Mallam, President of the Gideon and Funmi Para-Mallam Peace Foundation, thanked Governor Mutfwang for his leadership. He described him as a man of peace and integrity. He praised the Governor’s consistent commitment over the last two years toward restoring stability and unity in Plateau State.
Rev. Para-Mallam noted that insecurity has taken a severe toll on the State, leading to loss of lives and livelihoods. He emphasized the urgent need for inclusive, sincere dialogue among all stakeholders. This is to forge a sustainable path toward peace both in Plateau State and across Nigeria.
He reiterated the Foundation’s mission to promote justice and peaceful coexistence through value driven leadership and community based dialogue initiatives.
The roundtable featured a keynote address by Dr. Solomon Ehigiator Arase, along with insights from distinguished guests and peacebuilding experts.