The Executive Chairman of Barkin Ladi Local Government Council, Hon. Stephen Gyan Pwajok, on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, presented a brand-new official vehicle to the Gwom Rwei of Foron District at a brief but symbolic ceremony held at the council secretariat.
The gesture marked the fulfillment of a promise by the chairman to equip all five traditional rulers in the local government with official vehicles, following the purchase of three during the previous administration and one earlier this year.
In his remarks, Hon. Pwajok said the vehicle presentation was part of his administration’s deliberate effort to strengthen the traditional institution and enhance the mobility and functionality of the local monarchs in their service to the people.
“That’s why I was able to capture the two vehicles in my 2025 budget,” he explained. “The first was delivered in April to the Gwom Rwei of Gashish, and now we are presenting the second, to the Gwom Rwei of Foron, which completes the circle. You can see they’re all happy.”
Hon. Pwajok, a retired civil servant, expressed gratitude to Governor Caleb Mutfwang and the people of Barkin Ladi for the mandate and support that enabled him to serve.
“I just came to serve the people of Barkin Ladi. From all I’ve been doing, you can see the people are happy for choosing the right person at the right time,” he added.
The event was witnessed by dignitaries, traditional rulers, and cultural dancers, with goodwill messages pouring in from government representatives and community leaders.
Hon. John Ezekiel Chun, Principal Assistant to the Governor of Plateau State (Abuja Liaison), commended the chairman’s initiative, noting that the traditional ruler is from his own district and that the gesture is personally significant.
“The traditional council plays a critical role in uniting people at the grassroots and maintaining law and order,” he said. “I am particularly excited that the institution is now being considered in ongoing constitutional amendments to further strengthen its role in governance.”
Chun, who was scheduled to travel to Abuja for a presidential engagement, delayed his trip to attend the event and pledged ₦200,000 to fuel the vehicle.
“This chairman has demonstrated capacity, maturity, and responsiveness. Those of us who supported him have no regrets,” he added, calling on the people of Barkin Ladi to continue supporting the chairman’s administration.
Also speaking on behalf of the Boron District, community representatives expressed appreciation to the council for providing the vehicle and pledged continued support for both the Gwom Rwei and the chairman.
“We understand that resources are scarce, but this effort shows your dedication. We will continue to support our traditional leader and your administration,” a spokesperson stated.
Da David Buna the Gwom Rwei Foron Gudmng appreciated the chairman for his gesture.
“Today is a day of joy. It’s a demonstration of what you are known for — the ‘Action Man.’ No wonder His Excellency often refers to you as one of the top-performing chairmen in the 17 LGAs.” “You’ve not rested on your oars since assuming office, especially in the area of security and peaceful coexistence. I will report back to the governor that you’ve added another feather to your cap with this gesture.”
Chun, who had earlier interfaced with the Plateau State Fact-Finding Committee during their visit to the council, reiterated the need for factual reporting and sincerity in the committee’s findings.
“Barkin Ladi has experienced relative peace since this chairman assumed office. The committee must gather real, on-ground information that will help the state build a lasting peace framework,” he said.
The presentation ceremony ended with prayers, music, and cultural displays in honour of the traditional institution and the council’s commitment to inclusive governance.