In a historic event on Tuesday, October 10, 2024, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State formally swore in newly elected chairmen from 16 local government areas across the state. The swearing-in ceremony, held at Langfield in Jos, followed the announcement of election results by the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission (PLASIEC).
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) emerged as the dominant force in the October 9 elections, securing chairmanship positions in 16 local government areas, including Jos North, Jos South, Jos East, Bassa, Kanam, Barkin Ladi, Quan-Pan, Wase, Langtang South, Pankshin, Shendam, Riyom, Mikang, Kanke, Mangu, and Bokkos. The result for Langtang North is still pending.
Shortly after PLASIEC Chairman Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak announced the results, the newly elected officials received their certificates of return at the PLASIEC headquarters, marking the start of a new chapter in Plateau’s local governance.
During his remarks at the swearing-in, Governor Mutfwang expressed his pride in Plateau’s electoral process and lauded the peaceful and credible conduct of the election. Reflecting on his experience as a former chairman of Mangu local government, he celebrated PLASIEC’s commitment to a free and fair election, emphasizing that the voice of Plateau’s people had been respected.
“Congratulations to Plateau State. This has been a collective journey and a collective success. The PLASIEC team has proven their mettle by conducting a fair election,” Mutfwang said. He further noted that this administration is committed to strengthening local government autonomy, ensuring funds flow directly to local governments to enhance service delivery.
The governor also encouraged the newly elected chairmen to foster transparent governance, pledging support for a peer review mechanism to ensure that local leaders are accountable to their communities. He assured Plateau residents of the administration’s commitment to local government autonomy, stating, “Autonomy does not mean independence; it means providing the right working environment to bring governance closer to the people.”
Addressing the opposition, Mutfwang urged those dissatisfied with the results to pursue legal avenues rather than taking the law into their own hands. He commended the people of Plateau State for their support and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to ongoing improvements in governance.
The ceremony, which attracted distinguished guests, including the Chief Judge and other officials, concluded with Mutfwang thanking security forces, elders, and all stakeholders who contributed to the peaceful election process. He expressed optimism for collaborative efforts to drive Plateau State forward, saying, “Together, we can make progress and develop our beloved state.”
The newly sworn-in chairmen now face the challenge of delivering on their promises to the people, with hopes high for a new era of impactful local governance across Plateau State.
