In a poignant address at the 2024 Nzem Berom Jot Botoh (Jos North) festival, held at the Jos Polo Field on May 7th, 2024, the Gbong Gwom Jos, Chairman of the Plateau State Council of Chiefs and Emirs, His Majesty Da Jacob Gyang Buba CRF, conveyed his disapproval of the current state of politics in Nigeria. His Majesty, the paramount traditional ruler of the Berom Kingdom, emphasized that politics, originally intended to foster unity and drive development, has been hijacked by self-serving politicians.
Expressing concerns over the escalating challenges facing the nation, the Gbong Gwom Jos reiterated the importance of nurturing children with proper upbringing, sustained prayers, and repentance among Nigerians. He stressed that the country is grappling with unprecedented issues that necessitate divine intervention.
The occasion, however, was marked by a somber tone following the recent passing of retired Justice Gabriel Adamu Sha, the Gwom Kabong, the president of the Customary Court of Appeal, Plateau State. Despite the solemn atmosphere, the paramount ruler commended the attendees and extended condolences to the bereaved family and the entire Birom nation.
The gathering also served as a platform for discussing critical initiatives, including the forthcoming colloquium aimed at documenting the authentic history of the Berom nation. The Gbong Gwom Jos urged active participation from all quarters, emphasizing the importance of transparency and inclusivity in preserving the heritage of the Berom people.
Touching on the contentious issue of land disputes exacerbated by government policies, the Gbong Gwom Jos called for collaborative efforts to address the challenges posed by mining activities and land devastation. He urged traditional rulers to refrain from complicity in illegal mining practices and encouraged them to report such activities to the appropriate authorities.
Furthermore, the paramount ruler emphasized the need for politicians to prioritize the collective good over personal interests. He urged political leaders to conduct themselves with dignity and integrity, focusing on policies that promote development and benefit the populace at large.
In his closing remarks, the Gbong Gwom Jos highlighted the significance of environmental conservation, calling for concerted efforts to mitigate climate change through tree planting initiatives. He rallied support from local leaders and communities for the tree planting project, emphasizing its long-term benefits for future generations.
The event was chaired by Professor Ishaya Tanko, Vice Chancellor of the University of Jos, who lauded the annual Berom Cultural Festival for its role in fostering historical development, unity, and cultural exchange in Plateau, the North Central region, and Nigeria as a whole.
As the nation grapples with multifaceted challenges, the festival served as an opportunity to call for unity, transparency, and sustainable development which resonates as a beacon of hope, echoing the sentiments of the revered Gbong Gwom Jos, whose leadership continues to inspire progress and resilience in the face of adversity.
