The people of Ngayam community in Mangu Local Government Area of Plateau State, on Thursday alleged that the District Head of Pushit, Da Diket Gupiya, was planning to change the community’s name from “Ngayam” to “Larkat”.

This is contained in a protest letter addressed to Hon. Abdul Yanga, member representing Mangu North-East Constituency in the state House of Assembly.

It was signed by Mr Toma Caleb, Chairman, Ngayam Development Association and Secretary, Mr Titus Bautu.

The community said that the village was known and referred to as “Ngayam” for ages hence the new name remained alien to them.

They also alleged that the Village Head of Ngayam, Mr Dogo Goyil, and other persons from the community were arrested by the police over the issue at the instance of Gupiya.

“Sir, we write to intimate you of the constant harassment that our people go through in the hands of the District Head of Pushit, a district in your constituency.

“We are faced with numerous challenges, but most importantly is the attempt by the District Head to forcibly change the name of our village from ‘Ngayam’ to ‘Larkat.’

“As a community, this name is alien to us and has no meaning.

“So, as our representative, we wish that you will use your good offices to ensure that the matter which is capable of disrupting the peace in the area is properly addressed,” the letter read in part.

The the community also demanded that the District Head be made to append to certificates bearing Ngayam, the original name of the community.

According to the letter, Gupiya only signs the ones bearing Larkat.

However, copies of the letter were also sent to the Speaker and all members of the House, the Police Commissioner, the state Director of the DSS and a host of others.

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Plateau community disagree over plans to rename community