New Governor of Plateau state, Caleb Mutfwang on Monday declared a state of emergency in Jos ,the state capital.
Caleb who made the declaration in his maiden speech shortly after being sworn as the new governor at the Rwang Pam Township Stadium in Jos lamented the state of affairs under the out-gone administration.
He noted that the plans of his administration were audacious and transformative pointing out that the smooth execution of those plans and programmes is predicated on peace.
Stressing that he was ready to change the ugly situation of things and work for the good of the people, the new governor warned those behind the series of attacks and killings in the state to stop forthwith as his new administration would not tolerate such wicked acts
Caleb said “I understand clearly the enormity of the task before me and I have no illusions that it is going to be an easy ride.
The state is presently under a huge debt burden of over 200 billion naira, the healthcare sector is in need of urgent attention, our school system requires a comprehensive overhaul, our infrastructure is decayed and inadequate, and practically, every sector requires urgent redress. I must mention that there are no quick fix solutions to these challenges, but one thing is certain, we are prepared to take the challenges head-on and we will hit the ground running immediately.
“The genocidal attacks of the last couple of years suffered by many of our communities across the whole state have justifiably left deep wounds and trauma on several widows, orphans, relations and friends.
“This has in turn bred hate, mutual suspicion misplaced anger on innocent passersby and so-called reprisal attacks. Unfortunately, this has opened the door for those who dislike our unity and prosperity to label us as hateful and unaccommodating when indeed our people are the victims. The time has come and the Time is Now, when we MUST say enough is enough.
“I must also sound a note of warning to others who converted these waves of attacks as excuses for committing crime by stealing or sometimes putting innocent persons in jeopardy in the name of revenge to know that this would no longer be tolerated.
“By the grace of God, we are starting a new journey – a journey to secure Plateau, a journey to unite Plateau and a journey to develop Plateau. Our vision is to build a united, secure and prosperous plateau. Therefore, I will together with my team work day and night to transform the environment and the living conditions of our people for the better and to ultimately leave behind a legacy of great service for a better Plateau”
The PUNCH reports that the new governor was sworn in alongside his deputy, Josephine Piyo by the state Chief Judge, Justice David Mann at the Rwang Pam Township stadium in Jos and witnessed by a large crowd from different parts of the state .
