The Plateau State Government has defended Governor Caleb Mutfwang over reactions to his recent remarks during a meeting with leaders of the Igbo community, insisting that his comments have been taken out of context.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, the Director of Press and Public Affairs to the Governor, Gyang Bere, said the governor’s remarks were intended to promote reconciliation, national unity and appreciation for the contributions of the Igbo community to Plateau State.
The government said Governor Mutfwang did not, at any point, seek to downplay the experiences of any ethnic group or the historical realities of the Nigerian Civil War.
“The Governor’s remarks were made in the spirit of appreciation, reconciliation and national unity,” the statement said, adding that they were aimed at encouraging peaceful coexistence and mutual respect among Nigerians.
The statement noted that Plateau has long been regarded as a model of peaceful coexistence, where people from different ethnic and religious backgrounds have lived, worked and invested together.
It also highlighted the state’s history of embracing the Igbo community, describing their contributions to commerce, education, healthcare and industrial development as significant.
The government said Governor Mutfwang remains committed to the ideals of inclusion, dialogue and reconciliation, adding that his administration believes the state’s diversity is its greatest strength.
It urged Nigerians to disregard interpretations that portray the governor’s comments as divisive, saying such narratives distract from his message of unity and national cohesion.
The Plateau State Government further called on citizens to reject attempts to inflame ethnic tensions and instead work towards building a nation founded on justice, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
The statement reaffirmed Governor Mutfwang’s commitment to ensuring that every Nigerian, regardless of ethnicity, religion or place of origin, enjoys dignity, equal opportunity and a sense of belonging in Plateau State.
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