…A Symbol of Justice Reborn
A new chapter in the history of justice administration in Plateau State was written today as the Executive Governor, His Excellency, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, led top government functionaries to perform the groundbreaking ceremony for the ₦6 billion Ministry of Justice Office Complex at the J. D. Gomwalk State Secretariat, Jos.
The ceremony marked a defining milestone in the State’s ongoing institutional reforms and reaffirmed the Governor’s steadfast commitment to repositioning the justice sector as a pillar of peace, equity, and sustainable development.
Addressing dignitaries at the event, Governor Mutfwang described the project as “a continuation of our determined effort to lift the justice sector and make sure that they render services that we as Plateau people will be proud of.”
He emphasized that the new complex symbolizes his administration’s resolve to modernize governance, strengthen institutional capacity, and restore dignity to the public service.
“Our administration is building a lasting system anchored on fairness, inclusion, and efficency , one that strengthens justice delivery and creates new pathways for the growth of Plateau’s legal ecosystem,” the Governor said.
According to him, a functional justice system is the foundation for all-round development: “When the justice sector is not functioning well and is not well-oiled, it retards development in other sectors. We are not only going to walk the talk; we are declaring a war on discrimination against women to enhance their capacity to contribute meaningfully to development.”
Reflecting on the forthcoming golden jubilee of Plateau State, Governor Mutfwang added: “By the grace of God, Plateau State will celebrate 50 years next year. I am committed not only to preserving the legacy of J. D. Gomwalk, who built this Secretariat, but to upgrading it to meet the demands of the 21st century.”
In a gesture of compassion and inclusivity, the Governor also announced improved welfare for junior civil servants, particularly street cleaners, stating: “From the end of this October, they will not earn anything less than ₦30,000.”
Earlier in his remarks, the Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Philemon Dafi, described the event as “a profound moment of history, gratitude, faith, and hope for Plateau State.”
He noted that the ceremony was not merely a formality but “a convergence of purpose to lay the foundation for a new generation of justice on the Plateau.”
Hon. Dafi commended Governor Mutfwang’s visionary leadership, stating that his courage and decisiveness have turned a long-cherished dream into reality.
“Your Excellency, you have not only laid a physical foundation but fulfilled a divine purpose. This complex will stand as our own tested stone, a foundation for a more efficient, effective, and enduring justice system,” he said.
He revealed that the ₦6 billion complex will feature state-of-the-art ICT infrastructure, digital case management systems, mediation centers, and training facilities for continuous capacity development. It will also house the Office of the Public Defender, ensuring access to justice for the vulnerable and marginalized.
The Commissioner further highlighted landmark reforms achieved under the Mutfwang administration, including:
The Electricity Market Law (1983), The Plateau State Power Corporation Law (re-enacted in 2023), The Law Reform Commission Law (2023), and The Child Rehabilitation Centre Law (2023)
“These reforms,” he said, “represent deliberate steps toward a more humane, responsive, and accountable justice system. Justice infrastructure is governance infrastructure and this project proves it.”
Hon. Dafi assured that the Ministry will uphold transparency and accountability throughout the construction process, ensuring that every stage meets the highest standards.
“This complex will not just be a building; it will be a living symbol of hope, proving that justice is not a distant ideal but a present force. May this foundation cause us to forget the years of delay and decay, and usher in an era of renewed faith in justice.”
Speaking on behalf of the contractors, Cavallini Construction Company Limited, Engr. Bidemi Olobayo pledged that the company will deliver the project within the stipulated timeframe and to the required standards.
The Head of Civil Service, Hon. Stephen Godongs, commended Governor Mutfwang for his transformative leadership and continuous investment in human capital development across the civil service.
The event was attended by top government officials, members of the Judiciary and Legislature, representatives of the Nigerian Bar Association, and key stakeholders in Plateau State’s justice sector.
Designed and conceptualized by Plateau professionals, the project is wholly homegrown, a monumental symbol of fairness, equity, and institutional excellence, and a lasting testament to the Mutfwang administration’s commitment to justice and good governance.
