Fifty-six years after the end of Nigerian/Biafran civil war, Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has, on behalf of the people of the state, tendered an apology to the Igbo community over the role the state played during the war, which lasted from 1967 to 1970.
Speaking during an interactive session with Igbo leaders from the 17 local government areas of the state at the Government House in Jos on Sunday Mutfwang, confessed that Plateau people were deceived into participating in the war by the military administration of Gen. Yakubu Gowon, an indigene of the state who was the country’s head of state at the time.
The Governor therefore appealed to Ndigbo, as well as Plateau people to put the past behind them and forge ahead to strengthen the bonds of unity that had existed between them before indepence.
“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 begged.
While commending the Igbo for their contributions to the socio-economic development of Plateau State, the Governor noted that their wonderful partnership is pivotal to the state’s march towards self-sustenance.
According to the Governor, Plateau State had continued to remain one of the most accommodating states for the Igbo people since the end of the civil war, noting that compensation was paid for some losses suffered during the conflict.
“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,” he stressed, while appealing to Igbo businessmen in Plateau to support indigenous entrepreneurs through mentorship and investment.
“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,” the Governor appealed.
In his speech on behalf of the Igbo community, the President-General of the Igbo Community in Plateau State, Chief Chidi Onah, commended Mutfwang for his inclusive leadership, prudent management of resources and commitment to peaceful coexistence in the state.
He therefore announced the endorsement of the Governor for reelection by the Igbo community and further commended the governor’s developmental strides, saying Plateau now enjoys a more conducive environment for investment.
“He has promoted peaceful coexistence and created a business-friendly environment. He stood by us during the demise of our traditional ruler and has consistently engaged stakeholders to promote unity among the diverse ethnic groups in Plateau State.
“Igbo people have lived in Plateau since before Nigeria’s independence. We appreciate the governor for compensating some of our members over disputed properties and urge Nigerians across ethnic and religious divides to support his administration,” he advised.
