Plateau State Governor, Caleb Mutfwang, has apologised to the Igbo community for the role Plateau played during the Nigerian Civil War.
The governor said the people of Plateau were deceived into going to war. He made the apology during an interactive session with Igbo leaders from the 17 local government areas of the state.
The meeting was held at the Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos. According to a report by The Guardian on Monday, it was a frank and emotional engagement.
We Were Deceived, Let Us Move Forward
Mutfwang told the Igbo leaders that it was time to close a painful chapter in Nigeria’s history.
He commended the Igbo community for its huge contribution to the socio-economic growth of Plateau State. He described them as an integral part of the state’s progress and prosperity.
The governor noted that Plateau has remained one of the most accommodating states for the Igbo since the end of the war. He recalled that compensation was paid for some of the losses suffered during the conflict.
"I apologise 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," he said.
He added, "We must unite. We want the Igbos to regard us as their brothers and sisters, and together we must create an enabling environment where everyone can prosper."
Mutfwang Appeals for Mentorship and Jobs
Beyond the apology, the governor made a direct appeal to Igbo entrepreneurs in the state.
He praised the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo, saying no ethnic group has demonstrated it more. He urged them to replicate that spirit in Plateau by supporting local businesses.
The governor asked Igbo business owners to employ and train young Plateau indigenes through mentorship and investment.
"Nigeria is a great country. I encourage you to support our young people and create opportunities for them," he said.
Igbo Community Endorses Mutfwang for 2027
In a major political move, leaders of the Igbo community endorsed Governor Mutfwang for a second term ahead of the 2027 governorship election.
The endorsement was announced by the President-General of the Igbo Community in Plateau State, Chief Chidi Onah. He said the decision was based on competence, integrity and inclusive leadership.
Onah said Mutfwang has shown prudent management of resources and commitment to peaceful coexistence. He also noted that the governor stood by the Igbo community during the demise of their traditional ruler and has created a business-friendly environment.
"We hereby endorse Governor Caleb Mutfwang as the consensus candidate of the Igbo community for the 2027 governorship election. He has promoted peaceful coexistence and has consistently engaged stakeholders to promote unity," Onah said.
He added that Igbo people have lived in Plateau since before Nigeria’s independence. He thanked the governor for compensating some members over disputed properties and called on Nigerians to support his administration.
We Will Vote for Personality, Not Party
Former President-General of the Igbo Community Association, Chief Mike Okunonke, also spoke at the event. He described the Igbo as peace-loving and committed to Plateau’s development.
Okunonke said their support was not about political party but about performance.
"We will vote for personalities, not political parties. Governor Mutfwang has demonstrated capacity by creating opportunities and reducing unemployment. We will mobilise our members across the 17 local government areas to support him," he said.
The governor’s Special Adviser on Igbo Affairs, Barr. Jonah Okechukwu Ezekweme, commended Mutfwang for creating an enabling environment for the Igbo to thrive. He urged the community to continue partnering with the state to create jobs.
Earlier, High Chief Felix O. Akpunku, who welcomed guests on behalf of the governor, praised Mutfwang’s developmental projects and inclusive governance style.
The meeting also featured the formal presentation of the new President-General, Chief Chidi Onah, by the immediate past President-General, Chief Mike Ifeanyi Okunonke.
Other speakers, including Chief Dr. Nelson Mkparu and Hon. Maureen Odilimuo, lauded the governor for his support and pledged continued cooperation.
The session ended with both sides reaffirming their commitment to peaceful coexistence, deeper collaboration and sustainable development in Plateau State.
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