Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Plateau State Governor, Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has officially apologised to the Igbo community on behalf of the people of the state for the role Plateau played during the Nigerian Civil War, which lasted from 1967 to 1970. The governor made 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, July 19, 2026.
Mutfwang explained that the people of Plateau were deceived into participating in the conflict by the military administration of General Yakubu Gowon, an indigene of the state who was Nigeria's head of state at the time of the civil war. "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 commended the Igbo community for its contributions to the socio-economic development of Plateau State, describing them as "wonderful partners in progress" and an integral part of the state's march towards self-sustenance. He noted that Plateau had remained one of the most accommodating states for the Igbo people since the end of the civil war, and 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.
Mutfwang also appealed 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 said.
During the meeting, leaders of the Igbo community endorsed Mutfwang for a second term ahead of the 2027 governorship election, citing his inclusive leadership, prudent management of resources, and commitment to peaceful coexistence. The endorsement was announced by the President-General of the Igbo Community in Plateau State, Chief Chidi Onah. "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," Onah said. He added that the governor had promoted peaceful coexistence, created a business-friendly environment, and consistently engaged stakeholders to promote unity among the diverse ethnic groups in Plateau State.
Also speaking, former President-General of the Igbo Community Association, Chief Mike Ifeanyi Okunonke, described the Igbo as peace-loving people committed to the economic development of Plateau State. He said the community would support Mutfwang's re-election bid based on his performance rather than political affiliation. "We will vote for personalities, not political parties. Governor Mutfwang has demonstrated capacity by creating opportunities and reducing unemployment. We will mobilise our members across the 17 local government areas to support him," Okunonke said.
Mutfwang's apology represents a significant moment of reconciliation, acknowledging the historical wounds of the civil war while calling for unity and collective prosperity in Plateau State.
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