Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has formally apologize to the Igbo community on behalf of the people of Plateau State over the state’s role during the Nigerian Civil War (1967–1970), describing the gesture as a step toward healing, reconciliation, and lasting unity.
The governor made the apology during an interactive meeting with leaders of the Igbo community drawn from the 17 local government areas of the state at the Government House in Jos on Sunday.
Mutfwang said Plateau people were misled into participating in the civil war under the military administration of former Head of State, General Yakubu Gowon, who hails from the state.
He stressed that it was time to move beyond the painful memories of the conflict and strengthen the bond between Plateau people and the Igbo community.
“I apologise to the Igbos so that we can put the past behind us and continue to foster unity,” the governor said.
“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 its significant contributions to the socio-economic development of Plateau State, describing them as valued partners in the state’s growth and development.
He noted that Plateau has remained one of the most accommodating states for the Igbo people since the end of the civil war and recalled that compensation had been paid to some victims who suffered losses during the conflict.
“We want the Igbos to regard us as their brothers and sisters. Together, we must create an enabling environment where everyone can prosper,” he said.
Mutfwang also praised the entrepreneurial spirit of the Igbo people, urging them to expand their investments in Plateau State while encouraging Igbo business owners to mentor, employ, and train young Plateau indigenes.
“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,” he added.
Responding on behalf of the Igbo community, the President-General of the Igbo Community in Plateau State, Chief Chidi Onah, praised Governor Mutfwang for his inclusive leadership, prudent management of public resources, and commitment to peaceful coexistence.
Onah announced that the Igbo community had unanimously endorsed Mutfwang for a second term ahead of the 2027 Plateau State governorship election.
“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,” he said.
According to Onah, the governor has fostered peace, created a business-friendly environment, and demonstrated genuine concern for the welfare of the Igbo community, including standing with them during the passing of their traditional ruler.
He also commended the governor for compensating some members of the community over disputed properties and urged Nigerians, irrespective of ethnic or religious affiliation, to support his administration.
The meeting highlighted renewed calls for reconciliation, stronger inter-ethnic cooperation, and deeper economic partnerships between the Plateau State Government and the Igbo community.
