Gyang Bere, Jos
Plateau State Governor Simon Lalong has said his administration will create more Chiefdoms and Districts in fulfillment of the wishes and aspirations of the people of Plateau State.
Lalong disclosed this Saturday when he began the statewide installation and coronation of new traditional rulers in Plateau, presenting a second class staff of office to Emmanuel Ajik as the Adagwom Izere Jos and Da Luka Pagyang Pam as the Gwom Ibaas, a third class chief in Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area of Plateau State, respectively.
Lalong said the traditional Institution remains a veritable partner in development of the state, particularly in terms of peace and security.
“As a lawyer, I am of the view that no one should stop any group from agitating for a Chiefdom, District, Village or Development Area. If you don’t want, that is your right, but don’t stop anybody who wants from demanding for it. That is how the demands for local governments and states began and today we are witnesses to how some people have more LGAs than others.
“Under my watch, nobody will be treated as a second class citizen or superior to another. We are created equal by God and must learn to live together in peace and unity. Let the majority have their way and the minority their say. I will not tolerate nor support anyone trying to dominate another.
“Let me warn that any traditional ruler who is found to be promoting ethno-religious hatred, injustice, disharmony or shielding criminals will not only be dethroned, but will be made to face the laws of the land,” Lalong stated.
He explained that his administration has decided to follow the wishes and yearnings of the people of Izere, whose Chiefdom was truncated by the last administration of Governor Jonah Jang.
Governor Lalong installed Da Luka Pagyang Pam as the Gwom Ibaas, a third class Chief in Barkin-Ladi Local Government Area, charging him to see his role as that of a unifier rather than a sectional champion.
Lalong said his administration believes that Chiefdoms, Districts, Village and Development Areas are matters of constitutional rights for all citizens.