Plateau State Governor Simon Bako Lalong has continued the installation of more traditional rulers with the coronation and presentation of staff of office to two upgraded Chiefs in Jos South Local Government Area, their Royal Highnesses Dagwom Rwey of Gyel, Jos South LGA, Da Nga Dangyang on 2nd Class And Gwom Rwey of Zawan, Da Christopher Mancha on 3rd Class.
Dr. Makut Simon Macham Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Executive Governor in a press release made available to this medium stated that at the event, the Governor said it was the fulfillment of his promise to ensure that he makes the dream of those who want to have their chiefdoms and districts come to pass according to the laws of the land.
He said being one of his last assignments, he was happy that the people of Gyel and Zawan can attest to the fact that when he made that promise to create Districts and Chiefdoms, it was not for political purposes but because of his genuine love to take governance to the grassroots and also ensure that all people in the state are liberated.
He said “As I have always emphasized, the Traditional Institution is so dear and vital to the survival of our cultural heritage as it forms the bedrock of our coexistence as a people that share common and unique identity. The continuous maintenance of the norms, traditions and the way things are done must be safeguarded in the greater interest of the people”.
Lalong reminded them that since coming on board, he had paid greater attention on reviving the Traditional Institution so that it can contribute meaningfully in the developmental strides of the government.
“Consequently, we created 285 Districts, restored 2 First Class; 6 Second class; and 10 Third Class Chiefdoms across the State. Despite my Government’s efforts to fill in the few vacant stools in the State, the lingering litigation among the Royal Class in some chiefdoms brought setback. It is unfortunate that as we leave office, some of these Chiefdoms remain vacant to the disadvantage of the citizens. Nevertheless, we will continue to do our best to persuade the parties to take necessary to resolve the issues. However, we shall maintain our position of non-interference in selection of Chiefs” he said.
“Consequently, we created 285 Districts, restored 2 First Class; 6 Second class; and 10 Third Class Chiefdoms across the State. Despite my Government’s efforts to fill in the few vacant stools in the State, the lingering litigation among the Royal Class in some chiefdoms brought setback. It is unfortunate that as we leave office, some of these Chiefdoms remain vacant to the disadvantage of the citizens. Nevertheless, we will continue to do our best to persuade the parties to take necessary to resolve the issues. However, we shall maintain our position of non-interference in selection of Chiefs” he said.
Lalong described as unfortunate the fact that some persons feel threatened that others are aspiring to get Chiefdoms even after many years of complaining that they have been marginalised.
Chairman Jos South Local Government Mr. Gideon Dandereng praised Governor Lalong for being a man of his words and also ignoring the wishes of a few who kept suppressing the larger cries of the people to have their self determination.
He said the elevation of the Da Gwom Rwey Gyel to 2nd class having has been on the throne as a district head for 54 years is a legacy that Governor Lalong is leaving behind which he will be remembered for by generations to come.
Vice Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs HRH Miskoom Martin Shaldas III, Long Gamai of Gamailand also thanked Governor Lalong for what he has done for the traditional institution through his humility, great foresight and uniting factor.
Representatives of the Zawan and Gyel Development Associations were also excited that the day they have long waited for has come to pass and the people are grateful for the Lalong Rescue Administration.
Responding, the Da Gwom Rwey Gyel Jos South Da Nga Dangyang said he was a fulfilled man and really blessed to witness this day which he thought will never come.
He thanked Governor Lalong who ignored those that had suppressed the upgrade for many years saying that his people are happy and would continue to work with the Government to maintain peace and security in their domain.
Commissioner for Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs Hon. Sylvanus Tapgun urged the Royal Highnesses to work hard in ensuring that tolerance, openness, accommodation, fairness and justice is achieved under their reigns.
