‘Please forgive us’ – Mutfwang apologises to Igbos over state’s role during civil war

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has, on behalf of the people of the state, tendered an apology to the Igbo community over the role the state played during the Nigerian/Biafran civil war, which lasted from 1967 to 1970.

Mutfwang, who tendered the apology during an interactive session with Igbo leaders from the 17 local government areas of the state at the Government House in Jos on Sunday, said Plateau people were deceived into participating in the war by the military administration of Gen. Yakubu Gowon, an indigene of the state who was Nigeria’s head of state at the time of the civil war.

While speaking during the session, Mutfwang appealed to Ndigbo, as well as Plateau people to put the past behind them and forge ahead to strengthen the bonds of unity that exist between them.

“I apologise to the Igbos so that we can put the past behind us and continue to foster unity.

“We have become one family because our people were deceived into going to war, and we regret it. We must close that chapter and move forward,” Mutfwang said.

The Governor, who commended the Igbo community for its contributions to the socio-economic development of Plateau State, described them as wonderful partners in progress and an integral part of the state’s march towards self-sustenance.

According to the Governor, Plateau State had continued to remain one of the most accommodating states for the Igbo people since the end of the civil war, noting that compensation was paid for some losses suffered during the conflict.

“We must unite. We want the Igbos to regard us as their brothers and sisters, and together we must create an enabling environment where everyone can prosper,” he stressed, while appealing to Igbo businessmen in Plateau to support indigenous entrepreneurs through mentorship and investment.

“Nigeria is a great country, and no ethnic group has demonstrated the entrepreneurial spirit more than the Igbo. I encourage you to replicate that same spirit in Plateau. I also appeal to Igbo business owners to employ and train young Plateau indigenes,” he begged.

President-General of the Igbo Community in Plateau State, Chief Chidi Onah, who spoke on behalf of the Igbo community, commended Mutfwang for his inclusive leadership, prudent management of resources and commitment to peaceful coexistence in the state.

Onah also seized the occasion to assure the Governor that the Igbo community has unanimously endorsed him for a second term ahead of the 2027 governorship election.

“We hereby endorse Governor Caleb Mutfwang as the consensus candidate of the Igbo community for the 2027 governorship election. This endorsement is based on his competence, integrity, proven leadership and commitment to equity.

“He has promoted peaceful coexistence and created a business-friendly environment. He stood by us during the demise of our traditional ruler and has consistently engaged stakeholders to promote unity among the diverse ethnic groups in Plateau State,” Onah stated.

He further commended the governor’s developmental strides, saying Plateau now enjoys a more conducive environment for business and investment.

“Igbo people have lived in Plateau since before Nigeria’s independence. We appreciate the governor for compensating some of our members over disputed properties and urge Nigerians across ethnic and religious divides to support his administration,” he added.

‘Please forgive us’ – Mutfwang apologises to Igbos over state’s role during civil war