Protests reaction in Jos over Plateau governorship Appeal Tribunal verdict

…. it is a temporary setback, we remain optimistic, says Governor Mutfwang

By Daniel Agada, Jos

Following the Appeal Court judgment on sunday in Abuja that sack Governor Caleb Mutfwang Plateau state and affirmed Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda youths stage a peaceful protest in Jos.

Our correspondent who monitor the situation in Jos and Bukuru metropolis reports that, the youth floating the street with placards said the verdict is against the wish of the people.

There were presence of heavy security personnel prevent any eventuality that may likely occur.

Speaking with our correspondent, Samuel Bala one of the youth leader in Naraguta B ward of Jos North Local Government Area of the State said what inform their decision to float the street is the judgment that was delivered against Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

“We have seen the signed of injustice meted against Plateau since right from the judgments of PDP National Assembly members. We are not happy about this development and all were demanding is justice.”

On his part Longji Dafur, revealed that the aim of the peaceful protest is to express their grievances towards the judgment that have been delivered today.

“We are calling on National Judicial Council (NJC) of Nigeria to intervene on Plateau matter.”

Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Mutfwang has described the verdict of the Appeal Court that nullified his election as a temporary setback that will not deter him from repositioning the state on the path of Unity, Peace and Progress.

He expressed strong optimism that the mandate overwhelmingly given to him by the people of Plateau State would be restored, as he has instructed his legal team to file an appeal at the Supreme Court.

Governor Mutfwang in a statement on Sunday by his Director of press and Public Affairs, Gyang Bere, admonished citizens of the state and supporters of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) to remain calm and assured them that as long as God remains on the throne, the mandate of the people will be preserved and protected.

He reiterated his commitment to the rule of law and assured the people that there is light at the end of the tunnel, as he has unwavering faith in the judiciary and the constitution of Nigeria.

Governor Mutfwang concluded with a strong appeal to supporters, as well as citizens of the state to maintain law and order. He affirmed that Plateau will be victorious to the glory of God and reassured of his commitment to continually to serve the state with dedication and integrity.

In another development, the All Progressive Congress (APC) in Plateau state has applauded the judgment of the Appellate Court which confirmed the victory of its candidate Dr. Nentawe Yilwatda, calling on its members to celebrate the victory with utmost modesty and decorum.

A statement by the state publicity secretary of the party in Plateau, Sylvanus Namang, said the Chairman of the APC in Plateau state, Hon. Rufus Bature who is highly elated by the Appeal Court’s ruling in favour of its party’s candidate, Dr Nentawe Yilwatda, appealed to members and supporters of the APC in Plateau state to remain calm and refrain from any provocative acts that would affect the peace and tranquility of our beloved state.

According to the party Chairman, though the APC has emerged victorious after a lot of patience and respect for the sanctity of the Courts where it painstakingly appealed against the ruling if the first tribunal, the party is appealing to the PDP to call on its supporters to accept their loss in good faith and call on its members not to embark on anything that will lead to the breach of peace in the State.

He said there is no victor and no vanquished as Plateau state and its people remain brothers and sisters who should work for the common good of the state.

The acrimony and disaffection which prevailed in the wake of appeals should be put behind us as Plateau state was reduced to a laughing stock which is most regrettable as our people are reputed to be peaceful and accommodating hence its being referred to as the Home of Peace and Tourism.

Hon Rufus called on security agencies in the state to be on red alert and vigilant to avert any acts of break down of law and order.

Hon. Rufus Bature commended the Court of Appeal Court Judges for their meticulous, impartial and very professional handling of the Appeal.

He congratulated its gubernatorial,. candidate, Dr Nentawe Yilwatda and his Deputy, Hon. Pam Bot Mang over their well- deserved Victory and commended their patience, tolerance and statesmanly disposition while the trials lasted.

He urged them to be magnanimous in victory and work earnestly towards uniting the state and its people regardless of religious or ethno- sectional considerations.