Jos, Plateau State – A civil society group, One Plateau, One Voice, has expressed concern over the circulation of a purported invitation announcing the conferment of the traditional title “Sarkin Yakin Jos” on a former public office holder, warning that matters relating to traditional titles must remain the exclusive responsibility of recognized traditional institutions.
In a press statement signed by its Convener, Dogo Nanzing, and dated July 27, 2026, the group called on residents of Plateau State to remain calm, vigilant and law-abiding while respecting the authority of duly constituted traditional councils.
The group while responding to a proposed conferment of the supposed title said while citizens have the constitutional right to freely associate and honour deserving individuals, any conferment of traditional titles with historical and cultural significance must emanate from, or receive the endorsement of, the appropriate traditional institution vested with such authority.
According to the statement, the purported invitation, which has been circulating on social media and was reportedly issued by a group identified as the Forum for Concerned Jos Community Elders & Stakeholders, has the potential to create confusion and undermine public confidence in established traditional institutions.
One Plateau, One Voice noted that Plateau State has made significant progress in restoring peace through the collaborative efforts of the government, traditional rulers, religious leaders, security agencies and peace advocates, stressing that every individual and organization has a responsibility to avoid actions capable of inflaming passions or reopening historical sensitivities.
The group emphasized that the title “Sarkin Yakin Jos” carries deep historical, cultural and traditional significance and should not become the subject of unauthorized claims or public controversy.
“In the absence of clarification from the appropriate traditional authority, members of the public are advised to treat the purported conferment with caution,” the statement said.
The organization further alleged that there have been increasing attempts by certain individuals and groups to promote narratives capable of redefining historical realities and advancing divisive claims that could threaten the peaceful coexistence achieved across Plateau State.
It warned against using the state’s history, cultural heritage and traditional institutions as tools for political manipulation or sectional interests, urging residents to disregard activities that seek to appropriate or distort the authority of recognized traditional institutions.
The group also expressed concern that, given the prevailing security situation, actions capable of heightening tensions could be exploited by enemies of peace to create instability.
It called on residents to remain peaceful, vigilant and committed to unity, while encouraging them to promptly report any suspicious activities, unauthorized public ceremonies or gatherings capable of threatening public peace to the appropriate security agencies.
One Plateau, One Voice also appealed to the Plateau State Government, relevant traditional councils and security agencies to closely monitor developments surrounding the matter, provide necessary clarification where appropriate and ensure that no individual or group undermines the integrity of the state’s traditional institutions.
Reaffirming its commitment to peace and unity, the group urged Plateau residents to continue promoting justice, mutual respect and peaceful coexistence.
“Plateau State belongs to all law-abiding citizens and residents. Our diversity remains our greatest strength, and our future depends on our collective commitment to justice, truth and peaceful coexistence,” the statement concluded.
