From Yakubu Busari, Jos
Following the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP) landslide victory at the just concluded Local Government Elections in Plateau State, Governor Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang on Friday has swore-in the 17 LGAs Chairmen.
The Thursday, October 10, 2024, aftermath of the declaration by the Plateau State Independent Electoral Commission ( PLASIEC) Chairman, Hon.Plangji Cishak that the election held on October 9th, 2024 was ajudged free , fair and credible by local and international observers.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang described the conduct of the election as peaceful and rancour free .
The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as the ruling party won highest chairmanship seats 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.
He said, “You would recall that the, PLASIEC Chairman Hon. Plangji Daniel Cishak announced the outcome of the results, declared the newly elected and gave them their certificates of return at the PLASIEC headquarters, marking the start of a new chapter in Plateau’s local governance.
He praised 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 was 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 citizens of his 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.
