...As Nde Jika Golit ascended Ngolong Ngas 1st class status after a decade of vacuum

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang have stated that the traditional institution plays a vital role in preservation and sharpening peoples cultural heritage and identity.

Governor Mutfwang who was speaking Friday at Pankshin Stadium during the coronation and presentation of the staff of office to the new Ngolong Ngas, His Royal Highness Nde Jika Golit, on First Class status, said his administration value the continuous maintenance of the norms, traditions, and practices that serve the greater interest of the people.

Daily Champion reports that, the throne of Ngolong Ngas remained vacuum for almost a decade following the demise of the occupant, late Nde Joshua Dimlong.However, sometimes last year, 2023 Nde Jika Golit emerged successor through a peaceful process by king makers.

According to Mutfwang, "Today, by the grace of God, he will be crowned and presented with the staff of office to continue the good works of his predecessor. I therefore wish to congratulate the Ngolong Ngas, Nde Jika Golit, on his ascension to the throne of his ancestors. His selection by the kingmakers, through a peaceful and rancor-free atmosphere, is worthy of emulation by other ethnic groups in the state.

"As you are aware that a week of mourning was declared in honor of our beloved people who were gruesomely murdered during the cruel Christmas Eve attacks and the days that followed, in Bokkos, Mangu, and Barkin-Ladi Local Government Areas. Therefore, this occasion is low key and won’t involve the usual processions, glamour and celebrations, as it should be the case, in observance of the week of mourning. May their souls rest in peace and may the Lord comfort us, most especially those directly affected.

"The unprovoked attacks were premeditated and coordinated, considering the simultaneous nature of the attacks in several villages at the same time. They are purely, acts of criminality, insurgency and terrorism and must not be seen as Fermer – Herder clash which is the traditional narrative. 

"As a government, we will not rest on our oars but will continually collaborate with the Federal Government until the perpetrators of this heinous crime are brought to justice. We shall prevail and Plateau will come out stronger and put these forces of darkness to shame", Governor Mutfwang prayed.

He further emphasized that the traditional institutions have a critical role to play in strengthening inter and intra community relations which is essential for the protection of our communities against invaders. "It is against this background that my administration places high premium on traditional institutions in the state because of the enormous role they play in safeguarding their domain as well as the promotion of peace, stability, and harmonious co-existence among the people."

Congratulating the monarch, Governor Mutfwang revealed, "I am convinced that your ascension to the throne of your ancestors at this crucial period is the will of God and I have no doubt that you will bring your wealth of experience to bear. While you discharge your duty, I admonish you to be proactive, carry your people along in every decision.

"I strongly charge you to work day and night in the interest of your people to preserve the sanctity of the revered stool which you are occupying in trust for your people. I have no iota of doubt, that you will not jeopardise the confidence the people have in you."