Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang has urged Nigerians to reject ethnic and regional divisions, stressing that the country’s diversity should be a source of strength rather than conflict.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by his Director of Press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, the governor clarified that his recent meeting with Igbo leaders at the Government House in Jos was aimed at promoting reconciliation, gratitude and peaceful coexistence.
According to the statement, Mutfwang’s remarks recognised the resilience and contributions of the Igbo community to Plateau State’s growth while encouraging all Nigerians to foster mutual respect and national unity.
The government dismissed claims that the governor attempted to downplay the suffering of any ethnic group during the Nigerian Civil War, insisting his comments were misrepresented.
It stated that Mutfwang acknowledged the painful legacy of the war and emphasised that its lessons should inspire unity, healing and stronger national cohesion instead of reviving old divisions.
The governor also reaffirmed Plateau’s reputation as one of Nigeria’s most diverse states, where people of different ethnic and religious backgrounds have continued to live, work and invest peacefully.
The statement noted that this tradition reflects the post-Civil War “No Victor, No Vanquished” policy and the Reconciliation, Rehabilitation and Reconstruction programme introduced by former Head of State General Yakubu Gowon, which encouraged national integration.
Reaffirming his administration’s vision, Mutfwang said Plateau’s greatest strength lies in its diversity and pledged to continue promoting inclusive governance, equal opportunities and peaceful coexistence.
He also called on Nigerians to reject narratives capable of fuelling ethnic tension and instead work together to build a nation founded on justice, mutual respect and unity.
