Plateau governor apologizes to Igbo community for civil war role

Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has extended an apology to the Igbo community for the state's involvement in the Nigerian Civil War, attributing their participation to being "deceived." Speaking during an interactive session with Igbo leaders from across the state in Jos, Mutfwang called for the painful chapter of the past to be closed, emphasizing the need to strengthen bonds of unity.

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I apologize 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.

The governor commended the Igbo community for their substantial contributions to Plateau State's socio-economic landscape, recognizing them as an integral part of the state's growth. He noted that Plateau has historically been accommodating to the Igbo people since the war's conclusion and mentioned that compensation had been provided for some losses incurred during the conflict.

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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.

"I apologize 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," Mutfwang stated. He urged the Igbo community to view Plateau residents as brothers and sisters, working together to create an environment where everyone can prosper. He also encouraged Igbo entrepreneurs to support local businesses through mentorship and investment, and to employ and train young Plateau indigenes.

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Nigeria is a great country, and no ethnic group has demonstrated the entrepreneurial spirit more than the Igbo. I encourage you to replicate that same spirit in Plateau. I also appeal to Igbo business owners to employ and train young Plateau indigenes.

In a significant show of support, leaders of the Igbo community in Plateau State endorsed Governor Mutfwang for a second term in the upcoming 2027 governorship election. The endorsement, announced by Chief Chidi Onah, President-General of the Igbo Community in Plateau State, was based on Mutfwang's perceived inclusive leadership, prudent resource management, and dedication to peaceful coexistence. Onah highlighted the governor's commitment to equity, development, and his consistent engagement with stakeholders to promote unity among the state's diverse ethnic groups.

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We hereby endorse Governor Caleb Mutfwang as the consensus candidate of the Igbo community for the 2027 governorship election. This endorsement is based on his competence, integrity, proven leadership and commitment to equity.