D.M Long’gul (Lead citizen reporter)
During Simon Lalong’s tenure as the Governor of Plateau State, he took the initiative to establish several chiefdoms, including the Anaguta Chiefdom ,Jipal ,Aten of Kanuwuri, among others. However, it appears that progress is about to be reversed, as the investigative team at ViewpointNigeria has uncovered a distressing incident involving a citizen from the newly formed Ibas Chiefdom. This incident occurred when Mr. X approached the Local Government of Barkin Ladi for an urgent request to obtain an indigene form for his child, who was awaiting registration at the university.
Initially, Mr. X paid for the indigene forms and set out for Foron (Kakpwis) District to secure the signature of his District Head. In this instance, Mr. X sought the approval of Da Gwom Kakpwis, Da Yakubu Song, who graciously signed the forms for him, identifying himself as the District Head of Ibas. Mr. X then made his way to the local government to obtain the endorsement from the Local Government Chairman but was taken aback when the chairman seized the certificates and informed Mr. X that “this administration does not acknowledge the additional chiefdoms established by the previous administration.” even while the chiefdom is still acreation of the law. The executive chairman, Hon. Stephen Gyang Pwajok, issued a new form to Mr. X, who attempted to contest the injustice faced by himself and his community. However, he was left with no choice but to accept the new indigene form to enable his child to continue with the registration process; thus, he accepted the new forms and now must return to the default Foron District Chief for his endorsement. As of the time of writing this report, Mr. X has not yet completed this process (four days later).
The Ibas people, an ethnic group in Barkin-Ladi LGA of Plateau State, had long pursued official recognition and the establishment of a traditional ruler. They believed that this would strengthen their identity, facilitate cultural conservation, and improve their access to resources. Former Governor Simon Lalong, acknowledging the historical and political importance of the Ibas people’s plea, commenced the process of forming the Ibas Chiefdom. Comprehensive consultations took place with a variety of stakeholders, including traditional leaders, community representatives, and government officials. These discussions were intended to gather feedback and address concerns surrounding the proposed chiefdom. After receiving legislative approval, Governor Lalong appointed the inaugural traditional ruler (chief) of the Ibas Chiefdom. This event represented a pivotal moment in the history of the Ibas people, but it seems like the struggle is about to again.
With the actions taken by the chairman of Barkin-Ladi, one must consider what the Barr. Caleb Mutfwang Administration plans to do regarding the other chiefdoms and districts. The committee established by the administration to address grievances related to the creation of chiefdoms and districts is yet to submit its findings, and the legislation that created these districts and chiefdoms remains unrevoked; therefore, why would the chairman act in opposition to the existing law?
count | 9
